Mohsin Naqvi, the head of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), caused a stir following the Asia Cup 2025 final when he abruptly left the presentation stage with the trophy and winners` medals. This unprecedented action occurred after the Indian team staunchly refused to accept their awards directly from him.
Naqvi had been waiting on the podium for the post-match ceremony, but Suryakumar Yadav`s squad declined to receive the trophy or medals from the PCB chief, who also holds a ministerial position in Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had reportedly requested that a neutral executive, rather than Naqvi, present the trophy, bringing the entire post-match proceedings to an unexpected standstill.
Footage circulating on social media captured Naqvi`s departure from the stadium, trophy in hand, after India`s firm stance. An official was also observed subsequently taking the trophy back from Naqvi.
The Asia Cup trophy being taken back after Naqvi`s controversial exit.
Eyewitnesses noted Naqvi`s presence on the presentation stage with other officials, ready for the ceremony, until he was informed of the Indian team`s objection to receiving the accolades from him. Following some discussions, he decided to walk off the stage, taking the trophy and medals with him.
During the post-match press conference, India captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed his astonishment at Naqvi`s actions.
“This is one thing which I have never seen since I started playing cricket, started following cricket—a champion team is denied a trophy, that too a hard-earned one,” he stated. “I feel we deserved it. And I can`t say anything more.”
“If you tell me about trophies, mine are sitting in the dressing room, all 14 guys with me, the support staff—those are the real trophies throughout this journey in the Asia Cup.”
In a strong reaction to Naqvi`s decision to deny the trophy and medals to the Indian team, the BCCI has announced its intention to formally lodge a protest with the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Despite Naqvi`s regrettable conduct, the Indian team proceeded with their Asia Cup title celebrations, albeit without the physical trophy.
