New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally requested the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) to hand over the Asia Cup trophy to Team India, escalating tensions between the two governing bodies following the tournament’s conclusion last month.
According to reports, the BCCI sent an official communication to the ACC, asserting that India — as the rightful winners of the Asia Cup 2025 — should receive the trophy without further delay. The move comes weeks after India’s emphatic victory over Pakistan in the final, which was overshadowed by a trophy presentation controversy.
ACC’s Proposal Sparks Friction
ACC President Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), proposed that the Indian team or its representatives collect the trophy in Dubai during a special ceremony scheduled for November 10.
However, BCCI officials have reportedly rejected the offer, stating that it would be “inappropriate” for the trophy to be presented by a rival board’s chairman, particularly after the emotional and politically charged final between India and Pakistan.
BCCI Considers Escalation To ICC
With the issue still unresolved, the BCCI is now considering taking the matter to the International Cricket Council (ICC). Senior board members believe the ACC’s delay sets a “poor administrative precedent” and undermines the integrity of post-tournament protocols.
“If the trophy is not handed over within the next few weeks, we will raise this formally at the ICC board meeting,” said a senior BCCI official, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
Trophy Controversy After The Final
The controversy began on September 28, when India defeated Pakistan in a thrilling Asia Cup final. However, the post-match ceremony turned awkward after Indian players reportedly refused to receive the trophy from Naqvi. The team instead conducted a symbolic celebration without the physical trophy, a moment that went viral on social media.
Growing Support From Other Boards
The BCCI’s stance has received quiet support from other ACC member boards, including Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, who have expressed concern over the handling of the situation. Sources say these boards agree that the handover process should remain neutral and free from political undertones.
Broader Implications For Asian Cricket Governance
This episode adds to a growing list of tensions within the ACC, exposing the fragile balance of power between member nations. With India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka all major stakeholders in Asian cricket, the ongoing standoff could have wider implications for future tournaments and bilateral relations within the region’s cricketing framework.
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