Could Team India Have Accepted the Asia Cup Trophy from Naqvi?
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Synopsis
In a revealing commentary on the Asia Cup trophy controversy, former cricketer Danish Kaneria argues that India's refusal to accept the trophy stemmed from Mohsin Naqvi's dual roles. Discover why the circumstances surrounding the trophy presentation led to such a significant decision from the Indian cricket team.
Key Takeaways
- Controversy arose during the Asia Cup trophy presentation.
- India's refusal linked to political implications of Naqvi's roles.
- Danish Kaneria highlighted a potential solution.
- Presentation delay added to the tension.
- The event underscores sports and politics intersection.
New Delhi, Sep 29 (NationPress) Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria shared his thoughts on the Asia Cup trophy presentation debacle, asserting that the Indian cricket team would have graciously accepted the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi had he solely held the position of Asian Cricket Council president, rather than being intertwined with the Pakistan government.
Following India's five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the final, the Indian squad declined to accept the Asia Cup trophy during the presentation ceremony, which was delayed by 90 minutes. This was due to Naqvi's roles as the ACC chief, PCB chairman, and Interior Minister of Pakistan.
“Mohsin Naqvi is a Federal Minister in the Pakistan government. Had he been just the ACC chief or PCB chief, India would have accepted the trophy from him. But since he is directly involved with the Pakistan government, that’s why Gautam Gambhir’s boys avoided him,” Kaneria remarked to IANS.
The former leg-spinner emphasized that Naqvi should have stepped back and permitted another official to manage the ceremony. “Mohsin should have delegated the task to someone else—there must have been plenty of his ‘chelas’ around,” he added.
Although the match concluded around 10:30 PM Dubai time, the wait for the presentation extended until nearly midnight. Prior to the ceremony, the Indian team management inquired about who would present the trophy.
They expressed their readiness to accept the trophy from Emirates Cricket Board vice-chairman Khalid Al Zarooni, but Naqvi reportedly turned down this proposal.
As the ceremony commenced, Indian players Kuldeep Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, and Tilak Varma received their individual accolades from other dignitaries present on stage.
When Naqvi finally appeared on the stage, it became evident that the Indian team would not accept the trophy from him. Shortly after, the trophy was quietly removed from the venue, leaving the champions without their prize.
“I have been informed by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) that the Indian cricket team will not be collecting their awards. So that does conclude the post-match presentation,” Simon Doull, the host broadcaster's presenter, announced at the event.
Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Salman Agha accepted the runners-up cheque from Naqvi, marking the end of the ceremony.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the political undertones that often influence sports, particularly in cricket. The Asia Cup trophy decision reflects broader geopolitical tensions, and while national pride plays a vital role, maintaining sportsmanship should always be prioritized. This incident highlights the complexities athletes face in balancing national representation with the spirit of the game.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Team India refuse to accept the Asia Cup trophy?
Team India declined to accept the trophy due to Mohsin Naqvi's involvement with the Pakistan government, believing it compromised the spirit of the presentation.
Who is Mohsin Naqvi?
Mohsin Naqvi is the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, the Asian Cricket Council president, and also serves as Pakistan's Interior Minister.
What was the outcome of the final match?
India won the Asia Cup final against Pakistan by five wickets.
What did Danish Kaneria suggest regarding the trophy presentation?
Danish Kaneria suggested that Mohsin Naqvi should have allowed another official to present the trophy to avoid any political implications.
What happened to the trophy after the ceremony?
The trophy was discreetly removed from the venue after Team India refused to accept it, leaving them without their prize.
