Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi is facing mounting backlash after an incident that unfolded during the Asia Cup 2025 final presentation. Naqvi, who also serves as the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has been accused of violating ceremonial norms by not handing over the winner’s trophy to the Indian team — a move that has now triggered a major administrative storm.

According to insider reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively seeking Naqvi’s impeachment from his role in the ACC. Senior officials allege that his conduct has tarnished the image of cricket governance at both regional and international levels, with even the ICC expected to be drawn into the controversy.

As per sources, the Asia Cup trophy is currently in the custody of the UAE Cricket Board, and clarity is still awaited on when and how the trophy will be officially presented to Team India.

BCCI’s Allegations and Concerns

A faction within the BCCI, led by officials who confronted Naqvi in a recent virtual ACC meeting, has listed several serious violations against him. They claim his actions amount to abuse of authority and disrespect for sporting tradition.

Naqvi has reportedly breached the Code of Responsibilities and Ceremonial Protocols, as ACC guidelines require the president to personally honour the winners. His refusal to present the trophy to India, according to BCCI representatives, caused embarrassment on an international stage.

The so-called “trophy-stealing act” has also been described as a conflict of interest, suggesting personal or political motives may have influenced his behaviour. Reports indicate the trophy and medals were taken to Naqvi’s hotel room in Dubai, a gesture viewed by many as petty and unprofessional.

Politics and Sports Collide

Critics argue that Naqvi’s actions blurred the line between sportsmanship and politics, allowing national sentiment to override his responsibility as a neutral continental chief. In doing so, they believe he has damaged the credibility of both the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) — potentially setting a troubling precedent for future events.

BCCI’s Strong Response

During the virtual ACC session, senior BCCI officials Rajeev Shukla and Ashish Shelar directly challenged Naqvi. They emphasized that the trophy rightfully belongs to Team India, not to any individual, and urged the ACC President to publicly congratulate the Suryakumar Yadav-led side for their unbeaten campaign.

While the ACC Secretariat is said to have expressed regret over the episode, Naqvi himself has not issued a formal apology.

The BCCI has since announced plans to escalate the matter to the ICC, with the controversy expected to be formally discussed during the ICC’s upcoming November meeting.