ICC Establishes Panel to Mediate India-Pakistan Asia Cup Dispute

Post by : Mina Rahman

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Board has initiated a committee aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan related to the Asia Cup 2025. This decision followed concerns raised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) during a board meeting on Friday.

With both countries staunchly adhering to their positions, the ICC appointed Pankaj Khimji, chairman of the Oman Cricket Board and noted for his strong relationships with both nations, to lead the committee.

The tensions heightened after the Asia Cup final when the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief, Mohsin Naqvi, did not present the trophy to Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav. Reports indicate the Indian team declined to receive the trophy from Naqvi, given his political affiliation as Pakistan’s Interior Minister. Consequently, Suryakumar opted to celebrate the victory symbolically with his team, intensifying the diplomatic standoff.

Naqvi later proposed a ceremony in Dubai on November 10 for the BCCI to accept the trophy; however, this offer was turned down. The BCCI brought this issue to the forefront during the ICC meeting.

Sources reveal that the discussions were amicable, with representatives from Australia, England, and South Africa urging both parties to find a peaceful resolution. The ICC Board decided to form a three-member panel to tackle the trophy controversy and enhance bilateral cricket relations.

Naqvi’s presence at the meeting was confirmed shortly before, contingent on a key Senate session in Pakistan being postponed.