India Again Refused to Take Trophy from Naqvi, Fans Chanted ‘Thief’; Smriti-Shefali Set Record

India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the Women’s Asia Cup final to win the title for the 8th time. But a different picture emerged during the presentation ceremony after the match. The Indian team refused to take the trophy from Asian Cricket Council President and Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. During this, some fans present in the stadium also taunted Naqvi by chanting ‘thief’.Naqvi is also Pakistan’s Interior Minister. In 2025, the Indian men’s team had also refused to take the trophy from him after winning the Asia Cup.

Refused to Take Trophy from Naqvi

During the presentation, Mohsin Naqvi came onto the stage. The Indian team refused to take the trophy and medals from him. Naqvi only presented medals to the Sri Lankan players and handed the runners-up cheque to captain Chamari Athapaththu. After this, the presentation was concluded. The Indian players returned to the dressing room without the trophy and medals.

BCCI Had Given Two Options

According to BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, the board had suggested two options for the presentation. The first option was to have ACC Deputy Chairman Khalid Al Zarouni present the trophy. The second option was to have a board representative present the trophy. However, no agreement was reached on either of these options. Indian women’s team head coach Amol Muzumdar also said that the decision not to take the trophy was made by the BCCI and that the team stands by the decision.

Smriti-Shefali’s Record Partnership

Indian batters also put on a brilliant performance in the final. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma together recorded the biggest partnership in the history of the Women’s Asia Cup. India hit 32 sixes throughout the tournament, the most among all teams. The aggressive batting of both players gave the team a strong start.

Sri Lankan Fielder Injured

In the fifth over of India’s innings, Sri Lankan fielder Vishmi Gunaratne was injured. Her right ankle twisted while she was attempting a throw, and she fell on the field. The physio reached the field and examined her. She was then taken off the field on a stretcher. However, Vishmi later came out to bat and scored 20 runs.

Smriti Run Out While Trying to Take a Run

In the 14th over, Smriti Mandhana was run out. After a shot by Harmanpreet Kaur, both batters attempted to take a run. Kavisha Dilhari, who was stationed at point, made a quick throw. The wicketkeeper collected the ball and dislodged the bails, sending Smriti back to the pavilion. India eventually defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs to win the title. The team won the Women’s Asia Cup trophy for the 8th time.