SoldierSpeaks.org September 30, 2025 Indian team snubs PCB chief in public humiliation amid tensions during the Asia Cup 2025 final, where Team India refused to accept the trophy from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, opting instead for a symbolic gesture that went viral. Journalist Adil Raja, via his X posts, described the incident as a targeted embarrassment directed at Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir, highlighting the broader Indo-Pak cricket rivalries exacerbated by political undercurrents. This snub, captured in videos and social media, underscores ongoing diplomatic strains between the two nations, with Naqvi walking off with the trophy in a moment that sparked widespread commentary.
The incident unfolded after India’s victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup final held in Dubai, where the Indian players reportedly boycotted the trophy presentation involving Naqvi, who also serves as the Asian Cricket Council head. Visuals showed Naqvi storming off with the trophy, leading to accusations of “humiliation on the world stage” from Pakistani media outlets. Raja’s analysis frames this as more than a sporting slight, linking it to military-political entanglements and criticizing Naqvi’s role amid calls for accountability in Pakistani cricket governance.
Social media reactions amplified the event, with Instagram reels and YouTube videos labeling it a “historic moment” and questioning the motives behind India’s refusal. 2 sources Pakistani commentators viewed it as covering up a “humiliating loss,” while Indian fans celebrated the team’s stance. Naqvi responded by warning against “dragging war into cricket,” referencing Indian Prime Minister Modi’s remarks on the tournament.
This episode adds to the history of Indo-Pak cricket diplomacy failures, with experts noting it reflects deeper bilateral tensions beyond the pitch. SoldierSpeaks.org will monitor further developments in this ongoing saga of sports and geopolitics.