‘Unfortunate, Unsportsmanlike’: BCCI Slams Pak Minister For Taking Trophy To Hotel Room

BCCI has launched a scathing attack on Pakistan’s Interior Minister and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, accusing him of “unsportsmanlike” conduct after he allegedly walked away with the Asia Cup trophy following India’s refusal to accept it from him. The post-match presentation on Sunday night descended into a 90-minute-long drama after Team India, having beaten Pakistan by five wickets, stood firm on their decision not to receive the silverware from a minister of a state with whom India is “fighting a war”.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia condemned Naqvi’s actions, stating that while India’s refusal to accept the trophy from him was a “conscious decision,” it did not give Naqvi the right to take the trophy and medals away. “But that does not mean the gentleman will take away the trophy with him, along with the medals… and take them to his hotel room.

That is completely unacceptable,” Saikia told news agencies, adding that the BCCI would lodge a “very serious and strong protest” at the next ICC conference.The unprecedented standoff began after India conveyed to the ACC that they would not accept the award from Naqvi, citing his history of anti-India rhetoric and actions, including social media posts mocking the Indian military.

The Indian team was willing to accept the trophy from another dignitary on the stage, but Naqvi insisted on presenting it himself . When the Indian players refused to approach the dais, the ceremony was abruptly concluded, and ACC staff were seen walking away with the trophy, leaving the victorious Indian team to celebrate on the field without it .

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha defended his chairman, stating, “He is the ACC chairman. He is well within his rights to give away the trophy” . However, the BCCI remains adamant, demanding the immediate return of the trophy and medals to India . The incident has further escalated tensions in an already politically charged tournament and is set to become a major flashpoint between the two cricket boards at the international level.