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The Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan on September 28 is set to have a politically charged element, as Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman Mohsin Naqvi is scheduled to be present during the trophy presentation ceremony. Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan's Interior Minister and the head of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), is required in his capacity as ACC chief to attend the post-match trophy ceremony. The Indian team's response to his presence is expected to draw considerable attention.
While the attendance of a board chief is usually routine, Naqvi's prior public positions against India could transform the simple ceremonial event into a potential flashpoint. As the head of the continental body, Naqvi will be within his rights to present the trophy and take part in the customary handshake with both squads. However, with reports suggesting the Indian team is maintaining a 'no handshake' policy with Pakistan, it seems unlikely that the BCCI players will engage with a PCB chief whose public statements have been openly critical of India. The Indian board has yet to publicly clarify its official stance regarding Naqvi's expected presence.
Looking forward to handing over the Asia Cup trophy to the winners: Mohsin Naqvi
Mohsin Naqvi on the eve of grand finale hinted at his presence during the Asia Cup 2025 trophy presentation post the India versus Pakistan final clash.
"This year's Asian Cup has been a magnificent display of cricketing excellence and talent. The passion of the fans, the competitive spirit of the Asian teams, and the incredible performances on the field have made this a truly memorable event. We are set to see record viewership numbers, which is a testament to the growing popularity of cricket across the continent," Naqvi said in an ACC statement.
"I'm excited to witness a great final and look forward to handing over the trophy to the winners tomorrow," Naqvi added.
Tensions between the BCCI and PCB have been simmering throughout the Asia Cup tournament. A key point of contention arose when, at Mohsin Naqvi's insistence, the PCB accused match referee Andy Pycroft of prohibiting the exchange of pleasantries after India's victory on September 14, a claim that the ICC summarily rejected. Subsequently, Naqvi reportedly escalated the matter by seeking to have India captain Suryakumar Yadav banned from the final, filing Level 4 charges against him. These charges were centered on Yadav dedicating India's victory to the armed forces and showing solidarity with families affected by the Pahalgam terror attack, actions that Naqvi deemed controversial.
"As of now, information is that he would come this evening and obviously as ACC chairman, he will be giving away the winner's trophy. Let's see what the BCCI decides," a source privy to the development said as quoted by PTI.
"As of now, information is that he would come this evening and obviously as ACC chairman, he will be giving away the winner's trophy. Let's see what the BCCI decides," it added.
Further adding to the complexity, Naqvi has twice posted a cryptic video message on 'X' over the past few days. The video showed a Cristiano Ronaldo goal celebration depicting a plane crash. This is the same gesture that controversial Pakistani pacer Haris Rauf repeatedly made during the September 21 game against India, which ultimately led to him receiving a fine.
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