The simmering tension between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over the Asia Cup 2025 trophy is set to take center stage at the International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting scheduled for November 4 in Dubai. The controversy arose after the Indian team, following their victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on September 29, declined to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the PCB chairman and Pakistan's interior minister.

The BCCI's joint secretary, Devajit Saikia, has confirmed that the board will raise the issue at the ICC meeting, expressing disappointment that the trophy has not yet been handed over to them, even a month after their victory. He stated that a letter was sent to the ACC ten days prior to the meeting, but no response was received. Saikia emphasized that the BCCI is firm on its stance of not accepting the trophy from Naqvi.

The decision to refuse the trophy presentation stemmed from the heightened cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan. Following India's win, an ACC official removed the trophy from the presentation area without any explanation. This unprecedented situation led to the Indian team celebrating their victory without the trophy.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has insisted on personally handing over the Asia Cup trophy to India at a ceremony in Dubai on November 10. He proposed that BCCI representatives and available Indian team players receive the trophy from him as ACC President. Naqvi has also stated that Pakistan will fully participate in the ICC meeting and ensure that their position is clearly articulated. He stressed that Pakistan would not allow India to dominate the narrative and affirmed the PCB's intent to present its case with clarity and conviction before the international cricketing body.

The BCCI's firm stance has garnered support from several Asian cricket boards, including Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Despite the ongoing dispute, the ACC Rising Stars Championship is proceeding as planned, with India scheduled to face Pakistan on November 16 in Doha.

The controversy has drawn criticism from various quarters, including prominent voices within Pakistan's cricketing community. Former Pakistan captain Imran Khan has reportedly likened Naqvi's actions to damaging the country's cricketing system. Shahid Afridi has also criticized Naqvi for failing to uphold his responsibilities and blurring the lines between his roles as PCB chairman and Interior Minister.

As the ICC meeting commences, all eyes are on whether a resolution can be reached regarding the Asia Cup trophy. The outcome of the meeting will not only determine the fate of the trophy but also provide an indication of the future relationship between the BCCI and PCB.