PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi to Receive Shaheed Bhutto Excellence Gold Medal After Asia Cup Trophy Controversy

Mohsin Naqvi to Receive Shaheed Bhutto Excellence Gold Medal

After the conclusion of the Asia Cup 2025 final, a twist in events has ensued, with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi to be awarded the Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Excellence Gold Medal.

Naqvi’s prominent reaction during the much-discussed Asia Cup trophy presentation ceremony was a major news piece in both India and Pakistan.

Trophy Trouble: What Went Down at the Asia Cup Final?

Things got awkward after India won the Asia Cup. Word is that the Indian players didn’t want to take the trophy straight from Mohsin Naqvi, the ACC president at the time.

Then, get this: Naqvi supposedly walked off the stage with the trophy still with him! This caused quite a stir online and got fans from both countries arguing.

Why is Naqvi being recognised?

Naqvi’s steadfast determination under tremendous turmoil has won him the admiration of the Pakistani public. It is reported in the Pakistani media that President of Sindh and Karachi Basketball Associations, Advocate Ghulam Abbas Jamal has announced that Naqvi will be honoured with the prominent medal for his courage and leadership.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the Chairman of PPP, is anticipated to be the guest of honour at the event which will take place in Karachi.

What is the Shaheed Bhutto Perfromance/Excellence Gold Medal?

The Shaheed Bhutto Performance/Excellence Gold Medal is among Pakistan’s most highly regarded civilian awards. It is given to any person displaying national pride, attributes of leadership and firm observance of principles.

The award recognizes Mohsin Naqvi as someone who showed bravery and adherence while under investigation on the international stage.

Naqvi Denies Apology to BCCI

While some media reports claimed that Naqvi apologised to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over the controversy, the PCB chairman strongly refuted those allegations.

“I have never apologised, nor will I,” Naqvi clarified. “India will be handed the trophy only if they officially come to the ACC office to collect it.”

This statement has only intensified the debate, further solidifying his stance of defiance.

Afridi’s Advice to Naqvi

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi also weighed in on the issue, urging Naqvi to maintain composure despite the drama.

“My request to Naqvi Sahab is to stay calm and not let emotions take over. The world is watching,” Afridi advised.

Even though the Asia Cup 2025 trophy issue is still big news, Mohsin Naqvi getting the Shaheed Bhutto Excellence Gold Medal shows his strong leadership is popular with people in Pakistan.

Cricket fans and politicians are still talking about what happened, but one thing is for sure: the Asia Cup final will be remembered for more than just the game.