In a significant turn of events, it has come to light that the Indian cricket team has resolved not to share the presentation stage with Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi if they reach the Asia Cup final and emerge victorious. The summit clash of the continental tournament is scheduled for September 28.
Although Naqvi, as ACC president, is expected to present the winner’s trophy, the Indian side is reportedly unwilling to receive the silverware under such circumstances.
“…it is reliably learnt that if India make the tournament’s final on September 28, the players won’t be sharing the presentation dais with Naqvi, who is expected to hand over the winner’s trophy as ACC head,” reports news agency PTI.
Naqvi also holds the position of chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Pakistan Threatens To Pull Out
Meanwhile, the PCB has filed a complaint with the ICC against match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging that he instructed the two captains to skip the customary handshake during the toss of their Asia Cup Group A match on Sunday. The board has also demanded Pycroft’s removal as referee for the remainder of the tournament.
“The PCB has lodged a complaint with the ICC regarding violations by the Match Referee of the ICC Code of Conduct and the MCC Laws pertaining to the Spirit of Cricket. The PCB has demanded an immediate removal of the Match Referee from the Asia Cup,” Naqvi said in a social media post on Monday.
According to Cricbuzz, the PCB has even threatened to pull out of their upcoming group match against the UAE if their demands are not fulfilled. Naqvi also indirectly criticised India, accusing them of “bringing politics into the game” after the Suryakumar Yadav-led side declined to shake hands with the Pakistani players.
“Utterly disappointing to witness the lack of sportsmanship today. Dragging politics into the game goes against the very spirit of sports. Let’s hope future victories are celebrated by all teams with grace,” Naqvi posted on X.
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