Asia Cup trophy row: West Indies star says 'it's too much' on India skipping trophy collection from Mohsin Naqvi

Asia Cup trophy row: West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder has shared strong views on the India–Pakistan rivalry following the Asia Cup 2025, saying the on-field drama and post-match events left him uncomfortable and disappointed.

While India’s five-wicket win over Pakistan in the final once again underlined their dominance in multi-nation tournaments, Holder believes the focus shifted away from cricket and towards "unnecessary theatrics".

Asia Cup 2025 Final Overshadowed by Off-Field Controversy

India clinched the Asia Cup title after a tense final against Pakistan, but the celebrations were far from routine. The controversy erupted when Indian players chose not to collect the trophy from PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, reportedly due to political tensions following the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor.


As a result, Naqvi returned with the trophy, and India flew back home without formally receiving it despite winning the tournament. The unusual sequence of events sparked debate across the cricketing world.

“It’s Just Too Much”: Holder Reacts to Trophy Snub

Speaking on the Willow by Cricbuzz podcast, Jason Holder did not hide his feelings about the situation.

“I don’t like the India–Pakistan beef,” Holder said. “I saw India win the Asia Cup and they didn’t go to accept the trophy. It’s just too much.”

The former West Indies captain stressed that moments like these take away from the spirit of the sport.

Jason Holder on Politics Creeping Into Franchise Cricket

Holder also expanded the conversation to the wider impact of politics on modern cricket, particularly in franchise leagues. He pointed out that Pakistani players often miss out on opportunities in T20 tournaments linked to Indian ownership.

“Certain Pakistanis can’t be involved in certain teams because they’re owned by Indian owners,” he said. “It’s just sad.”

According to Holder, such barriers hurt the global nature of the game.

“Cricket Can Be a Starting Point for Change,” Says Holder

Acknowledging the long and complex political history between India and Pakistan, Holder believes cricket still holds the power to bring people closer.

“If you’re inspiring a generation and inspiring the world, then we have to find a way to come together,” he said. “Change can start on the cricket field.”

Holder added that sport can influence life beyond stadiums, creating a ripple effect in society.

Athletes as Role Models: Why Behaviour Matters

Holder highlighted the responsibility top cricketers carry as global role models. He warned that visible hostility at the highest level sends the wrong message to fans.

“There’s always a trickle-down effect,” he explained. “When people see their heroes behaving a certain way, it influences them. That’s why it’s sad to see this play out.”

Jason Holder Praises India and Pakistan Despite Tensions

Despite his criticism, Holder was quick to express admiration for both nations. He described India and Pakistan as “beautiful countries” with rich cultures and passionate cricket followers.

“That’s why moments like this hurt everyone who loves the game,” he said, urging stakeholders to uphold cricket’s values of unity and respect.

India–Pakistan Rivalry Limited to ICC and ACC Events

India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series for several years, leaving ICC and ACC tournaments as the only platforms where the rivalry continues. Asia Cup 2025 saw the teams face each other three times, including the final, keeping the spotlight firmly on their high-voltage clashes.

Inputs from TOI