The ACC offered India the Asia Cup in a November ceremony, after the Board of Control for Cricket in India got backing from Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.
Trophy in Limbo: A Ceremony Turned Controversy
The Asia Cup trophy remains unclaimed by champions India. Consequently, a diplomatic standoff continues between the BCCI and the Asian Cricket Council. Mohsin Naqvi, the ACC president, still holds the trophy firmly. He insists that a BCCI representative must collect it personally in Dubai. However, the Indian board has flatly rejected this condition. Therefore, the deadlock shows no signs of resolution anytime soon.
BCCI Gains Regional Support Amid Growing Tensions
Notably, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan have backed India’s stance. Both cricket boards joined BCCI in a formal appeal to Naqvi last week. Yet, Naqvi responded with the same demand: come to Dubai. As a result, BCCI plans to escalate the issue at the ICC meeting next month. Moreover, ICC chief Jay Shah is a former BCCI secretary. Thus, India hopes for a favorable outcome through global channels.
The Ceremony That Never Was
On September 28, history took an unexpected turn. Indian players refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi at the presentation ceremony. Why? Because of his documented anti-India social media posts. Specifically, he mocked India’s military response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Furthermore, India had already avoided handshakes with Pakistan throughout the tournament. So, the boycott of the trophy handover was both symbolic and strategic.
Naqvi’s Defense and BCCI’s Firm Position
According to a letter from Naqvi’s office, he was blindsided by the boycott. He claims BCCI informed him of the decision just minutes before the ceremony. Additionally, he waited 40 minutes on stage with dignitaries present. Nevertheless, India stood firm on its political and ethical grounds. Now, Naqvi says he will only release the trophy with fanfare. But BCCI refuses to legitimize his role in the handover process.
What Happens Next?
Currently, the trophy sits locked at ACC headquarters in Dubai. Naqvi reportedly instructed staff not to move it without his approval. Meanwhile, BCCI remains resolute and is preparing for the ICC showdown. Undoubtedly, this situation tests the line between sports and politics. Should the ICC intervene, it may set a crucial precedent. Ultimately, India’s 2023 Asia Cup victory deserves proper recognition—without compromise.