Asia Cup Row: PCB’s Naqvi Refuses Trophy Handover Again; BCCI to Escalate to ICC
The ongoing tension between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has deepened after PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi refused to hand over the Asia Cup trophy for the second time. The BCCI is now preparing to take the matter to the International Cricket Council (ICC), further straining Indo-Pak cricket relations.
Trophy Handover Controversy Explained
The dispute traces back to the Asia Cup 2023, held in a hybrid model (partly in Pakistan, partly in Sri Lanka) after India declined to tour Pakistan over security concerns. After India’s victory in the final, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Jay Shah presented the trophy to captain Rohit Sharma—instead of the PCB chief, as per tradition.
Reports suggest Naqvi, present at the venue, initially agreed but withdrew last minute, citing “procedural issues.” The trophy remains in Sri Lanka, and Naqvi has now rejected a second request to formally hand it over, reigniting tensions.
BCCI’s Response: Filing ICC Complaint
The BCCI is set to lodge a formal complaint with the ICC, accusing the PCB of breaching sportsmanship and tournament protocols. A BCCI official stated anonymously:
“This isn’t just about a trophy—it’s about respect. PCB’s actions undermine cricket’s spirit.”
The ICC’s intervention could escalate friction, especially with the 2025 Champions Trophy scheduled in Pakistan. India’s participation remains uncertain, and this dispute may further complicate relations.
Political Tensions & Fan Reactions
The row has spilled beyond cricket, with political undertones dominating discussions. On social media:
– Pakistani fans accuse the BCCI of disrespecting the host nation.
– Indian supporters argue the PCB is politicizing sports.
Former players have also reacted:
– Basit Ali (Ex-Pak cricketer): “Refusing twice looks petty—should’ve been resolved diplomatically.”
– Harbhajan Singh (Ex-India spinner): “Cricket must rise above politics. PCB should act responsibly.”
What’s Next for India-Pakistan Cricket?
With no bilateral cricket since 2012-13, multi-nation events remain the only stage for India-Pakistan clashes. The PCB has sought compensation from the BCCI for lost revenue due to India’s refusal to tour.
The ICC’s ruling will be pivotal:
– If favoring BCCI: Could set a precedent for future disputes.
– If neutral: May encourage PCB to push for ICC concessions.
Conclusion
The Asia Cup trophy dispute reflects the fragile state of Indo-Pak cricket ties. As the BCCI approaches the ICC, the cricket world watches whether diplomacy or further rift will follow.
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