Tensions surrounding the Asia Cup 2025 are set to escalate as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) prepares to address the ongoing trophy dispute with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi at the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting in Dubai on November 7. The controversy stems from India's refusal to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Naqvi, who is also Pakistan's Interior Minister, after defeating Pakistan in the final on September 28. This refusal was reportedly triggered by political tensions and Naqvi's alleged "anti-India statements".

Following India's victory, Naqvi reportedly took the trophy and sent it to the ACC secretariat in Dubai. The trophy has remained locked away at the ACC headquarters, with the BCCI alleging that Naqvi has insisted that the Indian team must accept the trophy directly from him. The BCCI has formally requested the ACC to hand over the trophy, but with no resolution in sight, they are now escalating the issue to the ICC. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia stated that the board would raise the issue at the ICC headquarters if the trophy was not handed over by November 3.

The BCCI's move to involve the ICC underscores the growing dissatisfaction with Naqvi's handling of the situation. Some reports even suggest that the BCCI representatives will seek clarification from the ACC regarding the delay in the trophy handover. The situation is further complicated by reports that Naqvi is likely to miss the ICC Executive Board meeting, citing "domestic political issues". However, PCB insiders suggest he may participate virtually, while Chief Operating Officer Sumair Syed will represent the board in person.

This absence has fueled speculation that Naqvi is attempting to avoid a direct confrontation with the BCCI. Naqvi has not attended ICC meetings since Jay Shah, who is also the secretary of BCCI, was elected Chairman of the global cricket body last year. Some reports indicate that Naqvi insisted on personally handing over the trophy to a member of the Indian team at a function in Dubai on November 10, a proposal rejected by the BCCI.

Amid the ongoing tensions, there are reports of growing discontent among some ICC board members, who are exploring the possibility of removing Naqvi as ACC President through an impeachment-style motion. The issue has also brought broader concerns to the forefront, including on-field conduct and diplomatic relations between the two boards. It is expected that the ICC will use the meeting to reinforce behavioral standards to prevent similar incidents from overshadowing future events.

Adding another layer to the situation, Afghanistan is reportedly supporting the BCCI's stance. As the ICC meeting approaches, the cricket world watches to see if a resolution can be reached or if the power struggle within Asian cricket will escalate further. The outcome of the meeting could have significant implications for the future of India-Pakistan cricket relations and the leadership of the ACC.