Tensions are high as the Asia Cup 2025 final approaches, with India reportedly declining a pre-match photoshoot with Pakistan, and questions surrounding the protocol for the trophy presentation by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi. Naqvi is also the chairman of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Pakistan's Interior Minister.

The decision by the Indian team to reportedly refuse a photoshoot with their Pakistani counterparts follows earlier reports that the team would maintain a "no handshake" policy with Pakistan during the tournament. These actions highlight the ongoing tensions between the two nations in the realm of cricket. As per convention, the captains, Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Ali Agha, would pose together with the trophy before the match.

Adding another layer of complexity to the situation is the expected presence of Mohsin Naqvi at the final. As ACC chairman, Naqvi is mandated to be present at the post-final presentation ceremony and hand over the trophy to the winning team. However, his dual role as PCB chief and his past public stances which have been critical of India, have raised concerns about the Indian team's response.

There is speculation about whether the Indian team will accept the trophy from Naqvi, especially given the reported "no handshake" policy. Some reports suggest the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to clarify its stance on the matter. A tournament insider was quoted by PTI saying, "As of now, information is that he would come this evening and obviously as ACC chairman, he will be giving away the winner's trophy. Let's see what the BCCI decides".

Naqvi's actions during the Asia Cup 2025 have already stirred controversy. The PCB, under his direction, accused match referee Andy Pycroft of preventing the exchange of pleasantries after India's victory on September 14, a claim the International Cricket Council (ICC) dismissed. Furthermore, Naqvi reportedly sought to have Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav banned for dedicating his team's victory to the Indian Armed Forces and expressing solidarity with the families of victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. He recently posted a cryptic video on social media platform 'X' which showed Cristiano Ronaldo's goal celebration that mimics a plane crash.

These incidents have fueled speculation about a potential snub by the Indian team during the trophy presentation. Some reports suggest that the BCCI may not allow its players to engage with Naqvi, considering his history of anti-India statements.

Despite the controversies, Naqvi has stated his enthusiasm for the final. "I'm excited to witness a great final and look forward to handing over the trophy to the winners tomorrow," he said in a statement issued by the ACC.