India emerged as champions of the recently concluded Asia Cup by defeating Pakistan, but the team has yet to receive the trophy. During the final’s prize-giving ceremony, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Asian Cricket Council chief Mohsin Naqvi was present to present the trophy, but the Indian team refused to accept it from him. Despite India’s refusal, Naqvi remained firm, resulting in India returning home without the trophy.
Pakistan has praised Naqvi’s resolve as an act of honour and is recognising his principled stance by awarding him the Shahid Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Excellence Gold Medal.
The award is given primarily in recognition of Naqvi’s ethical and courageous decision. Advocate Gulam Abbas Jamal, head of the Sindh and Karachi Basketball Association, announced the honour.
Jamal said, “This is not just about cricket. It is about Pakistan’s sovereignty, dignity, and refusal to bow to pressure.”
A special committee has been formed to organise the award ceremony. Khalid Jameel Shamsi, head of the Sindh Basketball Association, will lead the committee, while Karachi Sports Director Commissioner Gulam Muhammad Khan will act as secretary.
