India’s Asia Cup Trophy Snub Triggers Global Backlash

Dubai – A major controversy unfolded on Sunday night after the Indian cricket team refused to accept the Asia Cup 2025 trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman and PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi, despite their win over Pakistan in a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

According to multiple sources, the decision to reject the trophy presentation came at the direction of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), escalating what many have called an ongoing pattern of politicisation and hostile diplomacy within the sport.

Despite India’s stance, Mohsin Naqvi stood firm and refused to step aside, insisting on performing his role as ACC Chair. As a result, the trophy was never awarded on stage, and the post-match ceremony concluded awkwardly, with Indian players left on the field waiting while officials removed the trophy from the presentation area.

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The incident drew immediate backlash from fans, former players, journalists, and human rights activists who condemned India’s move as unsporting, arrogant, and damaging to the integrity of international cricket.

Criticism from Across the Spectrum

Prominent sports analyst Dr. Nauman Niaz criticised India’s decision, stating that true champions are defined by grace, not just silverware. On social media, he wrote:
“India lose much more than winning the Asia Cup. This is a smack on their faces. They should be suspended for such behaviour.”

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif went even further, calling the Indian team’s conduct grounds for suspension.
“In any other sport, refusing to accept the trophy would have resulted in immediate disciplinary action. But with so many top ICC officials being Indian, that seems unlikely,” he said.

He called it an “ugly day for cricket”, accusing India of trampling over the spirit of the game.

Public Figures React Strongly

The reaction wasn’t limited to the cricketing world. Human rights activist Marvi Sirmed denounced India’s gesture, calling it a “new low” in sports diplomacy. She added that India had made “a joke of themselves” instead of hurting Pakistan’s pride.

Senior politician Shireen Mazari echoed the sentiment, saying India’s behaviour showed how “small-minded” they were, even in victory.

Journalist Fahd Husain also weighed in, calling the Indian team “an embarrassment to cricket”, and blaming not just the players, but the BCCI and Indian government for what he described as an act lacking moral courage.

Bigger Questions Ahead

This episode has once again highlighted the deep-rooted tensions between India and Pakistan, not just diplomatically but now visibly on the sports field. India’s refusal to shake hands with Pakistani players throughout the tournament and the dramatic trophy snub are now being viewed as part of a broader, politically charged narrative.

The ICC’s silence on the matter has raised further questions, especially as its leadership includes several high-ranking Indian officials. Many are now calling for neutral leadership and stronger accountability to preserve the global credibility of the sport.

With the ICC annual conference set to take place in Dubai this November, the fallout from this incident is expected to dominate the agenda, particularly if formal protests or disciplinary demands are brought forward.