The much‑anticipated India vs Pakistan men’s cricket gold‑medal match at the Asian Games 2026 will be contested without Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi. The final, scheduled for Saturday at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, had been a focal point of speculation over Naqvi’s presence.
Naqvi, who also chairs the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has been at the centre of recent tensions between the BCCI and the ACC. His possible attendance had raised extra scrutiny because of past disagreements over trophy presentations involving Indian teams.
The ACC confirmed his absence on social media, stating: “ACC President, Mr. Mohsin Naqvi, will miss Finals Day at Asian Games 2026 due to prior commitments, but sends his very best wishes to all four teams ahead of the Gold and Bronze Medal Matches.” Naqvi himself echoed this, saying he wishes participants well but commitments prevent his travel to Nagoya.
Why is Mohsin Naqvi absent from the Asian Games final?
The official reason cited by the ACC is “prior commitments,” with no further details disclosed.
His non‑attendance also removes the risk of another contentious trophy presentation. Both the Indian men’s and women’s teams have previously declined to receive trophies directly from Naqvi, citing past disputes at the Asia Cup 2025 and 2026. With Naqvi sidelined, the BCCI’s request for an alternative presenter is effectively satisfied, averting any potential awkwardness at the podium.