India’s women’s cricket team declined the Asia Cup trophy in Dubai, citing a collective board decision. Rajeev Shukla confirmed that Pakistan’s Mohsin Naqvi raised no objection to the move.

  • India refused the Asia Cup trophy as a collective BCCI decision
  • Mohsin Naqvi did not object to the refusal
  • The move mirrors the men’s team’s stance in the 2025 Asia Cup

On September 13, 2026, India beat Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final at Dubai but did not accept the trophy. BCCI Vice‑President Rajeev Shukla explained that the board had discussed the matter internally and decided unanimously not to take the trophy, and that Naqvi raised no objection.

“We discussed the matter among ourselves and decided that we would not accept it (the trophy) from him. It was our collective decision. He also did not raise any objection to it,” Shukla told reporters after arriving at Indira Gandhi International Airport with the team.

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BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia echoed the stance, stating that the decision was communicated to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) well in advance, and that the team would not participate in the presentation ceremony.

Historical Background

The same refusal was made by the Indian men’s team after the 2025 Asia Cup, a move prompted by the 2024 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. The precedent highlighted growing caution in sporting gestures involving Pakistan.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the refusal reflects a broader diplomatic caution exercised by Indian sports bodies in the aftermath of regional security concerns, signaling that sporting gestures are increasingly intertwined with geopolitical considerations.

“Refusing the trophy is less about sport and more about national sentiment and security awareness.” – Cricket analyst Ajay Sharma
Did You Know?: The Asia Cup trophy was first presented to India in 2004, and it has traditionally been handed over to the winning side without controversy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will the Indian women’s team ever accept a trophy from Pakistan in the future?

A: The board has indicated that any future ceremonies will be evaluated on security and diplomatic grounds.

Q2: How might this decision affect India’s morale ahead of the Asian Games in Japan?

A: Shukla expressed confidence that the team remains proud and ready to win at the Asian Games.