A familiar controversy may be brewing ahead of the Asia Cup Rising Stars final in Doha, with signs pointing toward another potential trophy-related standoff involving India A and ACC President Mohsin Naqvi.
Sources have confirmed that Mohsin Naqvi will serve as the chief guest at the tournament’s finale, scheduled for November 23 in the Qatari capital. If results unfold as expected, the final could once again feature Pakistan Shaheens against India A — a repeat of the rivalry that has defined the tournament. While the cricket itself promises intensity, it is the post-match ceremony that has quietly become the biggest talking point. Back in September, the original Asia Cup ended on a dramatic off-field note when the Indian team refused to receive the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi during the closing ceremony.
The move left the trophy unclaimed, still sitting in the ACC office, with the governing body repeatedly inviting India to formally collect it. With Mohsin Naqvi now set to attend the Asia Cup Rising Stars final as well, insiders believe a similar situation could unfold again, particularly if India A qualify — as they are widely expected to.
The ACC, however, is proceeding with full preparations for the ceremony, hoping that the focus remains on cricket rather than another diplomatic flashpoint.
This time, though, the outcome might differ from the senior tournament. Pakistan A eased past India A during their group-stage meeting, meaning all this preparation may in fact be a moot point if Pakistan end up lifting the trophy.
For now, the final on November 23 carries stakes beyond the title itself. Fans in Pakistan and across Asia will be watching not only for the cricketing contest, but also to see whether history repeats itself — or whether the closing ceremony finally proceeds without controversy.
