PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is reportedly set to attend the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 final as the chief guest for the closing ceremony on September 13.
According to a report by Geo Super cited by Hindustan Times, Naqvi is expected to be present at the final. His reported attendance has put the trophy presentation in focus, particularly if the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian team reaches the title clash.
The development comes a year after a controversy involving Naqvi and the Indian men’s team during the presentation ceremony at the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup.
Trophy presentation could draw attention again
India’s victory over Pakistan in last year’s Men’s Asia Cup final was followed by a standoff over the trophy presentation.
The Indian team, then led by Suryakumar Yadav, chose not to receive the trophy from Naqvi, who was serving as ACC president. The post-match presentation was delayed before the Indian players celebrated without the silverware.
The trophy subsequently remained with the ACC in Dubai.
With Naqvi reportedly set to attend this year’s Women’s Asia Cup final, attention could again turn to how the presentation is handled if India wins the tournament.
However, there has been no official indication from the BCCI about what the Indian women’s team would do in such a situation.
India eye Women’s Asia Cup title
India have made a strong start to their Women’s Asia Cup campaign and have already secured a place in the semi-finals without losing a match.
The team began its group-stage campaign with a win over Thailand before defeating Hong Kong and Pakistan.
India’s emphatic victory over Pakistan was particularly notable, with the Fatima Sana-led side being bowled out for just 55 runs. India chased down the target in 8.4 overs to register a seven-wicket win.
The result strengthened India’s position as one of the favourites for the tournament.
Smriti Mandhana creates record
India’s campaign has also been marked by a major individual milestone for Smriti Mandhana.
The opener became the leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket during the tournament, moving past former India captain Mithali Raj.
Mandhana’s performances have added further momentum to India’s title campaign as the team moves into the knockout stages.
What happens if India reaches the final?
The Women’s Asia Cup final is scheduled for September 13. If India reaches the title clash and Naqvi attends as reported, the trophy presentation could attract significant attention given the events of last year’s Men’s Asia Cup.
For now, the BCCI has not publicly outlined any protocol regarding the presentation, leaving the matter open until the final is played.
