Asia Cup trophy controversy returns as Mohsin Naqvi set to attend Women’s final

The Asia Cup trophy controversy has returned to the talks, with ACC president Mohsin Naqvi reported to be attending the final in Dubai. Naqvi is expected to be the chief guest at the closing ceremony; should Harmanpreet Kaur’s India side lift the title, attention will once again focus on the trophy presentation.

The reports have thrown everyone back to last year when, during the men’s Asia Cup final, India defeated Pakistan but declined to accept the trophy from Naqvi amid heightened political tensions. This resulted in the ceremony being delayed, and India celebrated without the silverware; the trophy remains at the ACC office in Dubai.

Asia Cup trophy controversy returns as Mohsin Naqvi set to attend Women’s final

India enter the knockout stages as clear favourites. The team has remained unbeaten in the tournament and recently crushed Pakistan by seven wickets after bowling them out for just 55 in the group stage.

The BCCI has so far made no public comment on how the women’s team would handle a potential presentation involving Naqvi. With the final just days away, cricket fans on both sides will be watching closely to see whether history repeats itself. If India wins, it remains to be seen if anything similar occurs this time.  

India is focused and has already booked their spot in the semifinals of the tournament. With their dominating victory over their traditional rivals, Pakistan, they strengthened their semifinal momentum following an outstanding start, winning all three of their group stage games. 

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