ICC Establishes Committee to Address India-Pakistan Asia Cup Dispute

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Board has taken action by establishing a committee to mediate the dispute arising between India and Pakistan after the Asia Cup 2025. This decision follows concerns expressed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) during the ICC Board meeting held on Friday.

With both countries firmly holding onto their respective stances, the ICC selected Pankaj Khimji, chairman of the Oman Cricket Board and known for his strong relationships with both nations and his previous mediation efforts, to lead the committee.

The situation intensified after the Asia Cup final, where Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi did not present the trophy to Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav. The Indian team reportedly declined to accept the trophy from Naqvi due to his political role as Pakistan’s Interior Minister, leading Suryakumar to celebrate symbolically with his teammates, culminating in a diplomatic standoff.

Naqvi later extended an invitation for the BCCI to receive the trophy at a ceremony in Dubai on November 10, which was subsequently turned down. The BCCI brought the matter to the forefront during the ICC meeting.

Sources indicated that discussions at the meeting were constructive, with members from Australia, England, and South Africa urging both nations to settle the issue diplomatically. The ICC Board has therefore resolved to form a three-member panel aimed at addressing the trophy dispute and fostering better relations in bilateral cricket.

Naqvi's presence at the meeting was confirmed only shortly before its commencement due to a rescheduling of a significant Senate session in Pakistan.