India’s Decision on Women’s Asia Cup Trophy Explained by BCCI Vice-President
On Monday, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla addressed the media regarding India’s choice not to accept the Women’s Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Shukla emphasized that the decision was made collectively by the Board and mentioned that Naqvi did not raise any objections.
In the final match held in Dubai on Sunday, India secured a convincing victory over Sri Lanka by 72 runs. However, true to a stance taken by the men’s team during the previous Asia Cup, the Indian women’s team opted not to receive the trophy from Naqvi.
Upon returning to Indira Gandhi International Airport with the Indian team, Shukla shared details of their decision-making process. “We had a discussion among ourselves and settled on not accepting the trophy from him. It was a collective decision, and he didn’t have any objections,” he stated.
He went on to mention that the team was informed about this choice, and after Naqvi presented the trophy to the appropriate individuals, he left.
BCCI’s Perspective
Shukla’s remarks followed an explanation from BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia about the rationale behind the decision. Saikia stated that the choice was made with India’s national interest and public sentiment in mind. He emphasized that the team’s view was focused on not receiving the trophy from individuals deemed unacceptable to them at this time.
“This was a standard procedure after the final match, aimed at respecting our country’s interests and the sentiments of all our people,” Saikia explained.
He also highlighted a connection to an ongoing issue regarding the men’s Asia Cup trophy. Even though India triumphed in the men’s tournament in 2025, the trophy has yet to be returned to the country.
“We remain in solidarity with our men’s Asia Cup team. Given that their trophy still hasn’t arrived, it wouldn’t make sense for us to go against our position,” Saikia added, expressing hope for a resolution soon regarding both trophies.
Routine Interaction Clarified
Amid criticism over his interactions with Naqvi, Shukla clarified that these exchanges were part of routine professional conduct at a match, and there was no need for concern. “What Devajit said is completely accurate. Engaging in brief conversations during a game is quite normal. We shouldn’t overthink that,” he said.
Looking Ahead: Asian Games
Shukla also took a moment to celebrate the Indian women’s team’s achievement in winning the Asia Cup and expressed optimism about their performance at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan.
“We are proud to be Asia Cup champions. Our women have yet again made us proud, and we are looking forward to continued success,” he stated. “With the team heading to Japan, we are confident they will achieve victory there as well.”
