The traditional pre-final trophy photo shoot ahead of the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 final was reportedly cancelled after captain Suryakumar Yadav declined to participate. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also responded to reports that Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi will present the trophy to the winners.
The photo shoot was originally scheduled for Saturday in Dubai, a day before the much-anticipated final, but did not take place due to Suryakumar’s refusal. Both captains are now expected to pose with the trophy shortly before the start of the match. This will mark the first-ever India–Pakistan final in the 41-year history of the Asia Cup.
The 2025 edition has been particularly controversial and high-stakes, unfolding just months after the Pahalgam terror attack, with the Indian team even refusing handshakes with Pakistani players in earlier encounters.
India Refuse Pre-Final Photo Opportunity With Pakistan
Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha was questioned about India’s latest refusal, but he stated that it was India’s decision to make and the Men in Green are unconcerned by it.
“They can do whatever they want. We have our protocol, and we’ll do that. Rest is up to them; if they want to come, then come, if they don’t want to come, then don’t come,” Salman said at the pre-match press conference.
Meanwhile, PCB chief and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman Mohsin Naqvi is set to present the trophy to the winners of the final, including India if they emerge victorious. Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister and is known for his anti-India rhetoric, raises the question of whether the Indian team might avoid him during the presentation ceremony.
The BCCI has not taken a final call on the issue yet, with a decision expected closer to the event.
“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,” a tournament insider told news agency PTI.
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