Controversy Erupts Over Asia Cup Trophy as PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Faces Backlash

Asia Cup Trophy Incident Sparks Outrage

The chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Pakistan's Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, has found himself in hot water after allegedly taking the Asia Cup trophy with him. This incident occurred following Team India's refusal to accept the trophy after their significant win against Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium on September 28.

Naqvi, who holds multiple influential positions including that of the head of the Asian Cricket Council, has faced severe criticism for this action. Team India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, declined to accept the trophy due to Naqvi's controversial social media activity, raising doubts about his professionalism and judgment.

The scrutiny surrounding Naqvi has intensified after Pakistan's disappointing performance in the Asia Cup 2025, with critics questioning his capability to juggle such high-profile roles. His leadership as PCB chairman has come under fire, especially after Pakistan's failure to secure titles in recent tournaments, including the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy.

Calls for Naqvi to Resign from One Role

In light of the Asia Cup 2025 fallout, former cricketer Shahid Afridi has urged Mohsin Naqvi to resign from one of his two prominent positions. Afridi emphasized that both roles demand significant attention, particularly given the controversies surrounding Naqvi's leadership.

"These are critical posts that require full commitment. The PCB and the Interior Ministry are distinct roles that should not overlap," Afridi stated, advocating for a swift decision from Naqvi.

He further noted that Pakistan cricket requires dedicated focus and that Naqvi should not solely depend on advisers, especially since he has expressed uncertainty about his cricket knowledge. Afridi suggested that Naqvi needs to appoint knowledgeable advisers to guide him effectively.

Naqvi's Performance Under Scrutiny

Since taking over as PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi has overseen a series of disappointing performances by the national team, including failures in home Tests and major tournaments like the T20 World Cup 2024 and Champions Trophy 2025. Pakistan's inability to qualify for the Super 8 in the T20 World Cup and their early exit from the Champions Trophy have raised concerns about his leadership.

Additionally, Naqvi's decision to retain Babar Azam as captain has faced criticism after the team's lackluster performance in the previous T20 World Cup.

The Asia Cup Trophy Controversy Explained

The controversy surrounding Mohsin Naqvi stems from his social media posts, which led Team India to boycott the trophy presentation ceremony. Consequently, the champions left without the trophy or medals, as Naqvi reportedly took them with him.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally protested Naqvi's actions, labeling them as 'unsportsmanlike' and a violation of established protocols. They demanded the immediate return of the Asia Cup trophy and medals, but Naqvi insisted on a formal ceremony, which the BCCI rejected.

Reports indicate that Naqvi did not congratulate Team India on their victory, leading to further backlash. BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla confronted Naqvi, asserting that 'the trophy is not your personal property.' As a result, Team India returned home empty-handed, unable to celebrate their victory with the trophy.