'Are they living in the past?': Ex-India cricketer slams Mohsin Naqvi

Trophy Standoff Again Marries India's Women's Asia Cup Glory

Namma India's women sealed the Asia Cup in Dubai, beating Sri Lanka by a comfortable 72 runs in the final on Sunday. But the celebration? Once again derailed by the same awkward trophy presentation drama. 🏆

For the second year running, the Indian squad declined to accept the silverware from Asian Cricket Council president & PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi. Naqvi—yes, also Pakistan's Interior Minister—stayed put at the venue, but our girls weren't keen to shake hands over the trophy. Sound familiar? That's exactly what happened at last year's men's final too.

Kaif Speaks Out

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif didn't hold back, questioning whether Naqvi can truly juggle cricket admin alongside heavy political duties.

"Are they living in the past? Don't they have a reality check?" Kaif told Cricbuzz. "If you're in cricket, then you have to be in cricket. You can't split yourself across two places. Look at the BCCI—nobody runs two such heavy offices at once."

He also fired back at the narrative that Pakistan lacks talent, insisting the talent is there but the system and leadership aren't. "Players aren't bad. You need people who make players. There's a lot of talent in Pakistan."

The Lingering Question

With Naqvi holding triple titles—ACC President, PCB Chairman, and Interior Minister—his role at any India-Pakistan event remains deeply sensitive. And with history repeating itself, the debate over the separation of sport and politics shows no signs of winding down.

For now, the win stands tall, but the trophy ceremony? Still an unfinished story. 💛

Source: Times of India