The Asia Cup 2025 has been clouded with numerous controversies surrounding the two neighboring countries, India and Pakistan. The tournament has made headlines more for the off-field banters and political tensions.
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As the two sides prepare to square off in the Finals, a fresh controversy has emerged ahead of the big game. According to reports, Team India is likely to boycott the presentation ceremony if Mohsin Naqvi presents the winning awards.
Will India boycott the Asia Cup Final presentation?
The strained relations between India and Pakistan further worsened earlier this year when they faced off in a war-like situation following the Pahalgam terror attack in India.
As a follow-up to the incident, Team India refused to shake hands with Pakistan after winning the group stage and Super 4 clashes. The Men in Blue won both the meetings earlier in the tournament, winning the group clash by 7 wickets and the Super 4 match by 6 wickets.
India's handshake refusal led to much drama and a series of controversial events involving the two countries. Pakistan demanded the removal of Andy Pycroft, the match referee, and threatened to pull out of their league game against the UAE.
The matter further escalated when the two sides faced off in the Super 4s encounter. The high-voltage clash witnessed some heated exchanges and insensitive gestures from the Pakistani players.
Now, with the finals fast approaching, India is the big favorite to win the continental cup. The winners' cup is all set to be presented by Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairman of the Asian Cricket Council, the PCB Chairman, and the Interior Minister of Pakistan.
While there has been no official word from either side, it is unlikely that India will collect their trophy from the PCB Chairman if they win the tournament on Sunday.
Why is Mohsin Naqvi presenting the Asia Cup winners' trophy?
As per the protocols, the head of the board presents the trophy to the winning side. Mohsin Naqvi is currently the Chairman of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and is all set to lead the proceedings during the finals' presentation ceremony.
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