The contentious issue of the missing Asia Cup trophy—which has remained in limbo since India defeated Pakistan in the final on September 28—came to a head on Friday as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) formally escalated the matter at the ICC Board meetings in Dubai.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly offered to mediate and help resolve the deadlock between the BCCI and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman.
The Trophy Stand-Off
India, who won the Asia Cup final in Dubai, is yet to receive the champions’ silverware. The trophy remains in the custody of Mohsin Naqvi, reportedly held at the ACC office in Dubai without orders for its removal except with his explicit approval.
- BCCI’s Stance: BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, representing India at the ICC Board, highlighted that the trophy rightfully belongs to the Indian team and must be handed over immediately. Saikia reiterated that the BCCI will not accept the trophy directly from Naqvi due to his controversial dual role as Pakistan’s Interior Minister, which was the original reason for the Indian team’s refusal to accept it during the post-match ceremony.
- Controversy Origin: The dispute began immediately after the final when the Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi due to his political position. Following the refusal, an official abruptly removed the trophy from the presentation area. Despite a formal request from the BCCI to the ACC ten days before the ICC meeting, no positive response was received.
ICC Intervention Expected
The discussions at the ICC meetings, which were described as cordial rather than confrontational, indicated a consensus among board members that the dispute must be resolved quickly. Several directors expressed concern that withholding a trophy from the champions reflects poorly on the governance of international cricket.
Reports suggest the ICC may form a panel if necessary to address the issue.
The presence of Mohsin Naqvi at the meeting, despite earlier uncertainty regarding his attendance, turned the trophy issue into a key focal point of the discussions. The cricket world now awaits the ICC’s intervention to ensure the champions finally receive their prize.