India Women Decline Asia Cup Trophy from ACC Chief Mohsin Naqvi After Record Eighth Title

The Indian women's cricket team chose not to receive the Asia Cup 2026 trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi after defeating Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

India secured a record-extending eighth Women's Asia Cup title with a dominant performance in the final. However, the players did not come forward for the customary trophy presentation involving Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan's Federal Minister for Interior.

India Follow Men's Team's Protocol

The decision mirrors the protocol followed by the Indian men's team after winning the 2025 T20 Asia Cup against Pakistan. The men's side had also declined to collect the trophy from Naqvi during the presentation ceremony.

According to reports, the men's Asia Cup trophy remained at the venue for nearly an hour before Naqvi instructed officials to take it away. India subsequently returned without the trophy.

The Indian players' decision was reportedly linked to Naqvi's position as Pakistan's Interior Minister and India's objections to his alleged support for terrorism.

BCCI Officials Present Medal to Player

While the Indian players did not collect the trophy from Naqvi, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and vice-president Rajiv Shukla were present at the venue.

Saikia congratulated the team and presented Nandani Sharma with a fielding medal before addressing the players.

Reports also suggested that the BCCI had written to Naqvi requesting that the trophy be handed over to the Indian team. However, the trophy was reportedly not presented to the champions.

Shafali, Smriti Set Up India's Big Total

On the field, India produced a commanding performance. They posted 183/5 after being put into a strong position by openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana.

Shafali scored 68, while Mandhana contributed 59, with the pair putting together a record 129-run opening partnership.

Shree Charani, Deepti Lead Bowling Attack

India's bowlers then completed the job, restricting Sri Lanka and securing a 72-run victory.

Shree Charani claimed four wickets, while Deepti Sharma picked up three, as India's all-round performance sealed another continental title for the Women in Blue.