Indian Women’s Cricket Team Declines Asia Cup Trophy from Pakistan’s Mohsin Naqvi

The Indian women’s cricket team recently made headlines by refusing to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both the chief of the Asian Cricket Council and Pakistan’s interior minister. This decision came after India triumphed over Sri Lanka by a significant margin of 72 runs in the final match held in Dubai, marking their eighth Asia Cup victory.

The award ceremony faced a delay of approximately 50 minutes, during which the Sri Lankan team received their runners-up cheque from Naqvi, followed by medals from Eran Wikramaratne, the interim chief of the Sri Lankan cricket board. Amidst this backdrop, Indian coach Amol Muzumdar addressed the media, explaining that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had preemptively communicated their intention to abstain from receiving the trophy. Muzumdar affirmed the team’s solidarity with this decision, stating, “For us, this tournament is over; we are the champions, and that’s good for us.”

Underlining the team’s pride, he added, “It was on the big board that India are the champions of Asia Cup 2026. This tournament is officially over for us. We’re happy that we’re the champions and we look forward to the Asian Games.” This refusal to accept the trophy underscores a broader sentiment within Indian sports regarding diplomatic relations and the political climate between the two nations.

The BCCI’s advance notification to the Asian Cricket Council about the team’s intentions highlights an ongoing trend, as similar incidents have occurred in the past. In September 2025, for instance, the Indian men’s cricket team similarly declined to accept an award from a Pakistani official, reflecting a growing sensitivity around such interactions amid geopolitical tensions.

The latest decision by the women’s team resonates with many in India, symbolizing not just a stance against political relations but also a significant moment in women’s sports, where the athletes are increasingly asserting their agency. As the team prepares for future competitions, including the upcoming Asian Games, this event emphasizes their focus on sporting excellence while navigating complex external factors.

Source: scroll.in