India refuses trophies from ACC chief in protest over Asia Cup victories

India's cricket teams have staged an unusual protest at two consecutive Asia Cup tournaments, refusing to accept championship trophies from ACC president Mohsin Naqvi over what officials describe as a matter of principle.

The men's team first declined the trophy after defeating Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup, with Naqvi subsequently leaving with the silverware. The women's team followed suit at the 2026 edition, claiming a record eighth continental title by beating Sri Lanka but rejecting the trophy presentation. The incidents drew criticism from fans who dubbed Naqvi the "trophy thief" on social media.

BCCI secretary Devjit Saikia has assured stakeholders that both trophies will be returned to India in due course. The exact nature of the dispute between Indian cricket authorities and the Asia Cricket Council leadership remains unclear, though the coordinated refusals suggest a broader disagreement over governance or administrative matters within the continental body.

The Asia Cup victories represent significant achievements for both Indian teams, with the women's title marking an eighth continental championship. The trophy standoff has highlighted growing tensions within Asian cricket administration and raised questions about the relationship between the region's premier cricket board and its continental governing body.