The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to protest strongly against Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman Mohsin Naqvi after the Asia Cup trophy row. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia made it clear that India expects the Asia Cup trophy and medals to be returned immediately.
The controversy began during the presentation ceremony in Dubai. India had won the Asia Cup but declined to accept the trophy from Naqvi, who also holds a senior political position in Pakistan. In a surprising move, Naqvi carried the trophy away from the stage. This act stunned players, officials, and fans watching across the world.
Suryakumar Yadav’s squad celebrated their victory on the champions’ podium, but the absence of the trophy left the moment incomplete. Many supporters felt the celebration lost its traditional sparkle. Images of the team without the trophy spread quickly on social media, sparking anger among Indian cricket fans.
Saikia condemned Naqvi’s action, calling it unsporting and disrespectful. “We came along with the medals. It is very unfortunate. We hope the trophy and medals come back soon,” he said. Saikia added that refusing the trophy from Naqvi did not give him any right to take it away.
The BCCI has already planned to raise the issue at the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Board meeting scheduled in November. Officials believe this incident has set a wrong precedent in international cricket. The matter, they say, goes beyond one tournament because it involves respect for players, fans, and the spirit of the game.
The Asia Cup trophy row has now escalated into a diplomatic and sporting controversy. Cricket bodies worldwide are watching closely, as the fallout may affect relations within the ACC. For India, the demand is simple: the Asia Cup trophy belongs to the winners, and it must be returned without delay.
