India has once again politicized sport, making the Women’s Asia Cup controversial as well.
After winning the final, the Indian women’s team refused to receive the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi. Asian Cricket Council President Mohsin Naqvi was the chief guest at the Women’s Asia Cup final.
According to sources, the protocol for presenting the trophy had been fully decided, and the trophy was available to be presented to the winning Indian team. The Indian team itself decided not to receive the trophy. The trophy will be transferred to the Asian Cricket Council office.
According to sources, “There has been no change in our position. Mohsin Naqvi did not step back even an inch from his position previously, and he still stands by the same position today. India’s previous trophy is also available; it is only awaiting collection.”
The Indian team became Women’s Asia Cup champions for a record eighth time. In the final, India defeated defending champions Sri Lanka by 72 runs. The Sri Lankan team was bowled out for 111 runs while chasing a target of 184. Captain Chamari scored 36, while Nilakshi made 22 runs.
It may be recalled that last year, India’s men’s team had also refused to receive the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi.
The Indian team’s shameful act of not receiving the trophy from Asian Cricket Council President Mohsin Naqvi has triggered strong criticism in sports circles, with critics calling the move a blatant politicisation of cricket and a departure from the spirit of sportsmanship. Sports commentators and observers have questioned the decision to turn a trophy ceremony into a political controversy, arguing that personal or political differences should not be allowed to dominate the game. The act has been described as disrespectful to established sporting norms and the dignity of the competition, with critics stressing that victories should be celebrated with grace and opponents and officials treated with established decorum.
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