Former India coach and Commentator Ravi Shastri strongly criticized the Indian cricket team for refusing to accept the Asia Cup 2025 trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, calling the incident “ridiculous.”
Speaking after the presentation chaos, Shastri said the players should have respected the occasion and the waiting fans.
“The players are made to lift the trophy, and the presentation ceremony is to happen. That is ridiculous, the crowd is here, they have arrived making noise, it’s worthy of the final and the game,” he remarked.
The controversy erupted when Indian officials objected to Mohsin Naqvi personally handing over the trophy. Despite strong resistance, Naqvi stood firm on his role, leading to an unprecedented situation where the ceremony was abruptly ended and the trophy sent to the ACC office.
Shastri expressed disappointment at how the episode overshadowed India’s five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the final.
“And then you hang around for 45 minutes after a game, still not knowing what’s happening – it’s ridiculous,” he added.
The former coach stressed that moments like trophy presentations are significant not only for players but also for fans worldwide. India lifted the Asia Cup crown after Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 guided them to victory.
