The much-debated Asia Cup trophy controversy came up during the ICC meeting in Dubai. However, contrary to fears of a heated exchange, the atmosphere remained calm. In fact, the representatives of the Indian and Pakistani cricket boards engaged in a polite and diplomatic conversation.
There had been uncertainty over the participation of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and interior minister Mohsin Naqvi, but he arrived in Dubai on Friday afternoon at the last moment. Although the trophy issue was not officially on the meeting’s agenda, BCCI secretary Debajit Saikia personally raised the matter. Saikia pointed out that the Asia Cup trophy was still in Pakistan and should be handed over to India soon. His tone, however, reflected a spirit of resolution rather than confrontation.
According to Cricbuzz, other member nations also supported a quick resolution to the trophy issue. A proposal was made to form a joint committee, though a final decision has yet to be taken.
India defeated Pakistan on September 28 to win the Asia Cup title, but even after a month and a half, the trophy remains in the custody of the Pakistan Cricket Board — as if a soft diplomatic match continues off the cricket field.
