New Delhi, Sep 7 : With ACC Women’s Asia Cup 2026 reaching the business end and India emerging as one of the strongest favourites to win the title, a potential controversy surrounding the trophy presentation is already beginning to take shape as Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi is reportedly set to attend the ceremony of the continental tournament in Dubai.
As was the case in Men's Asia Cup last year, ACC chief Naqvi, who is also a federal minister for interior and narcotics control of Pakistan, will present the trophy to the victorious side after the final.
According to a report by Pakistan's sports channel Geo Super, Naqvi will travel to Dubai to attend the final of the continental tournament on September 13 and will be the chief guest of the closing ceremony.
Naqvi was at the centre of a major controversy during last year’s Men’s Asia Cup final at the Dubai International Stadium when India defeated Pakistan in the summit clash but decided not to receive the trophy from Naqvi as Pakistan supported cross-border terrorism in India.
Indian team indicated willingness to receive it from Emirates Cricket Board vice-chairman Khalid Al Zarooni, but Naqvi was said to have rejected the proposal. When Naqvi finally stepped onto the dais, the Indian side made clear they would not accept the trophy from him. Moments later, the trophy was discreetly removed from the venue, leaving the champions without their prize.
The Harmanpreet-led side are the favourites to win the title, as they have qualified for the semifinals unbeaten. India sealed their place in the last four with a dominant seven-wicket win over Pakistan, bowling them out for just 55 runs before chasing down the target with ease.
If India go on to win the title, it is unlikely that Harmanpreet and Co. would accept the trophy from Naqvi's hands.
Controversy looms as Mohsin Naqvi set to present Women's Asia Cup trophy
