In the aftermath of the chaotic Asia Cup 2025 final ceremonies, Mohsin Naqvi Pakistan’s Interior Minister, PCB Chairman, and ACC President fired back in response to criticism from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The trophy drama had ignited political tension, and Naqvi did not hold back. 

India had refused to accept the trophy from him, citing his political status and controversial social media posts. As tensions boiled over, Naqvi’s response included the provocative line “If war was your measure of pride…” a clear attempt to escalate the narrative beyond the pitch. 

The exchange comes after a dramatic moment captured on video: as India stood firm in their boycott, Naqvi reportedly exited the stadium with the trophy. While he may not have physically carried it, a spokesperson did. The scene left the Indian team stranded without their rightful moment of celebration. 

Critics say Naqvi is trying to drag politics and even war rhetoric into sport, turning a cricketing event into a stage for nationalistic confrontation. Observers note it’s dangerous territory when sporting events become battlegrounds for political sentiment. 

Some analysts argue that Naqvi’s posture was expected  an attempt to reclaim control over a narrative he may have lost during the on-field events. Others caution that such rhetoric can undermine the spirit of sport, turning games into extensions of geopolitical rivalry.

Meanwhile, India’s refusal to accept the trophy has reignited debate: was it a justified protest or a misstep that cost the team their ceremonial moment? The outcome is still being parsed in boardrooms, media circles, and among fans across both nations. In an era where sports, media, and politics are ever more entwined, the Naqvi-Modi volley is a vivid reminder sometimes the real game begins after the final over.