India Reportedly Refuse Women’s Asia Cup 2026 Trophy From ACC President and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi
The Indian Women's Cricket Team refused to accept the Women's Asia Cup 2026 trophy from ACC President Mohsin Naqvi after their 72-run victory over Sri Lanka in the final on September 13, 2026, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This standoff, echoing a previous controversy, was reportedly due to political tensions.
A fresh wave of controversy has engulfed Asian cricket after the Indian Women's team reportedly refused to accept the Women's Asia Cup 2026 trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi during the presentation ceremony at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, September 13, 2026. This highly anticipated final saw India clinch a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title with a commanding 72-run victory over Sri Lanka, but the post-match celebrations were overshadowed by a tense standoff. India Clinch Women's Asia Cup 2026; Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana And Shree Charani Seal Record 8th Title.
Team India Declines To Collect Trophy
India once again faces criticism over sportsmanship , hesitates to collect the trophy and the Women’s Asia Cup closing ceremony is delayed. #WomenAsiaCup
— Sohail Imran (@sohailimrangeo) September 13, 2026
ACC President Mohsin Naqvi Awaits Team India During Presentation
Once again, Team India refused to take the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, and this shameless man is still standing in the stadium. Maybe he’ll steal the trophy and run away again just like last time he did pic.twitter.com/lOUgReRNVl
— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) September 13, 2026
Following India’s emphatic win, which concluded around 11:25 PM IST (9:55 PM UTC+4), the trophy presentation was delayed by over half an hour as the Indian players reportedly made it clear they were unwilling to receive the silverware from Naqvi. Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan's federal Minister of Interior and Narcotics Control and the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), was present at the venue as the chief guest, expected to present the trophy to the victorious Indian side.
Echoes of Past Controversy
This incident mirrors a similar controversy that marred the men's Asia Cup final in 2025, also held in Dubai, where the Indian men's team similarly refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi after defeating Pakistan. Reports indicate that India preferred an impartial official to present the trophy, citing ongoing political tensions between the two nations and allegations of Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism in India. Additionally, past offensive comments attributed to Naqvi about India have been cited as a reason for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s stance.
The protracted delay in Dubai saw broadcasters interviewing Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur before the presentation typically occurs, further highlighting the unusual circumstances. Eventually, BCCI officials reportedly stepped in to hand over the medals to the Indian squad. The trophy itself was reportedly removed from the venue, with Naqvi taking possession of it.
India's Dominant Performance on the Field
Despite the off-field drama, India's performance on the pitch was clinical. Batting first after winning the toss, India posted a formidable total of 183 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana set the stage with a blistering 129-run partnership. Verma smashed 68 runs off just 39 balls, including nine fours and two sixes, while Mandhana contributed a rapid 59 runs from 39 deliveries.
Sri Lanka, in response, struggled to cope with India's bowling attack and were eventually bowled out for 111, handing India a decisive 72-run victory. Shree Charani was the pick of the Indian bowlers, claiming four wickets, while Deepti Sharma took three crucial wickets to dismantle the Sri Lankan chase.
Match Summary
| Teams | Score (20 Overs) | Wickets | Runs Conceded |
|---|---|---|---|
| India Women | 183 | 5 | N/A |
| Sri Lanka Women | 111 | All Out | N/A |
Key Individual Performances (India)
- Shafali Verma: 68 runs (39 balls, 9x4, 2x6)
- Smriti Mandhana: 59 runs (39 balls)
- Shree Charani: 4 wickets
The victory marks India's eighth Women's Asia Cup title, solidifying their dominance in the continental tournament. However, the contentious trophy presentation is likely to be a major talking point in cricketing circles for days to come, further highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics that often intertwine with the sport in the region.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 14, 2026 12:31 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
