Mohsin Naqvi Confirms His Absence From India vs Pakistan Asian Games 2026 Final

Mohsin Naqvi confirms his absence from Asian Games 2026 final - (Source: AFP)In a significant development, ACC chief and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that he won’t be travelling to Japan to attend the India vs Pakistan Asian Games final. The two arch-rivals are set to square off at the Korogi Sports Park for the gold medal match on Saturday, October 3.On Friday, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) released a statement that Mohsin Naqvi won’t be travelling to Japan due to prior commitments. The development has come as a delight for India fans because Naqvi’s absence means that there won’t be any post-match controversy.Mohsin Naqvi Confirms Absence; Sends Message For India And PakistanThe ACC posted a message from Mohsin Naqvi on their social media handle, explaining his absence. The PCB chairman also extended his wishes to both India and Pakistan for the gold medal match.“Wishing all participants the very best ahead of the gold medal and bronze medal matches at the Asian Games 2026. Commitments will keep me away from Nagoya, but i’ll be looking forward to some thrilling action, ” Naqvi remarked in his message.Who Will Present Gold Medals to Asian Games Winners?Notably, as per the protocols, under Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) rules, medals are presented by OCA officials or authorized event representatives rather than necessarily requiring an ACC head. Hence, even if Mohsin Naqvi had travelled to Japan, the OCA would have asked one of its representatives to present the medal to the winning side, which India wouldn’t object to.Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Record vs Pakistan Ahead Of Asian Games 2026 FinalControversy Explained Surrounding Mohsin Naqvi And Team IndiaThe issue started during 2025 Asia Cup in UAE. A few months before the continental cup, India and Pakistan nearly engaged in a war and the geo-political tensions were at an all time-high following Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in India.During that time, a few Pakistani players made derogatory remarks against India, including Mohsin Naqvi, who was criticised for his anti-India remarks and posts. Hence, Team India decided to boycott any interaction with Pakistani nationals during that time.After the final, Naqvi waited at the podium for the Indian team, but they refused to take the trophy from PCB chairman. Eventually, he fled the scene with the trophy. The tradition extended during 2026 Women's Asia Cup.Also Read: 3 Indians Who Can Shatter Pakistan's Gold Medal Dream In Asian Games 2026 Final