PCB chief says no trophy handover without his consent, Asia Cup stays in Dubai

The Asia Cup trophy, which the victorious Indian team declined to accept from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, has been kept securely at the ACC’s Dubai headquarters. It is under clear instructions not to be moved or handed over without prior approval from the Chairman.

After India’s victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on 28th September in Dubai, Naqvi, who is also the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Pakistan’s Interior Minister, took the trophy away when the Indian team refused to accept it.

The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, especially after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

“A source close to Naqvi informed PTI that, as of now, the trophy remains at the ACC office in Dubai. According to instructions from Naqvi, it must not be moved or given to anyone without his direct approval and physical presence,” a source said.

“He has made it clear that only he will personally hand over the trophy to the Indian team or the BCCI, whenever that may occur,” the source added.

The Asia Cup was dominated by the ongoing hostilities between India and Pakistan. Throughout the tournament, Indian players refused to engage in handshakes with their Pakistani rivals.