Cricket / Asia Cup Trophy Controversy Reloading! Mohsin Naqvi to Present Trophy — But Will India Accept It?

Dubai, Sep 6:  As the Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 final approaches, a familiar question has resurfaced in cricket circles: will Team India accept the trophy if they win?

The issue stems from last year’s men’s Asia Cup controversy, when Indian players refused to take the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The women’s final is scheduled for September 13 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. According to reports in Pakistan’s Geo Super, Naqvi will be the chief guest and will present the trophy to the winning team.

Also read: India Demolish Pakistan by 7 Wickets in Women's Asia Cup

If India emerges champions, the spotlight will inevitably fall on the prize distribution ceremony.

Last Year’s Incident

In the 2025 men’s Asia Cup final, India defeated Pakistan to clinch the title. However, the Indian team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, declined to receive the trophy and medals from Naqvi.

While individual awards were accepted by players such as Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dube, and Tilak Varma, the team collectively avoided the main presentation.

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha accepted the runners‑up prize, and Naqvi eventually left the stadium with the trophy. Reports later suggested that the BCCI had taken steps to secure the trophy, which now resides at the ACC headquarters.

Current Scenario

India’s women’s team has been unbeaten in the tournament so far, raising expectations of another title. Should they win, all eyes will be on whether they accept the trophy from Naqvi. The matter has already sparked debate, though the Indian camp has not issued any official statement.

With memories of last year’s incident still fresh, the final promises not only high‑quality cricket but also potential drama off the field. The trophy handover could once again become the talking point, overshadowing the sporting achievement.