Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal has called on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to boycott matches against India in future multi-nation tournaments following the Asia Cup 2025 controversy. The uproar began when India refused to accept the winner&rsquo;s trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, delaying the post-match ceremony by 45 minutes.
India&rsquo;s stance came after Naqvi&rsquo;s repeated anti-India remarks during the tournament, despite holding the neutral role of ACC president. He had earlier demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft after the no-handshake row between the two teams in the group stage.
Akmal criticised India&rsquo;s behaviour, calling it damaging to the spirit of cricket. He suggested that PCB take a firm stand by refusing to play against India, while also urging the International Cricket Council (ICC) to form a neutral committee comprising officials from Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand to address the issue.
The Asia Cup 2025 saw heightened tensions throughout. India refused handshakes after the Pahalgam terror attack, while Pakistan&rsquo;s players engaged in aggressive on-field celebrations and sledging. Despite the charged atmosphere, India remained unbeaten and clinched the final by five wickets.
Akmal alleged that India crossed all limits and accused them of showing &ldquo;cheap behaviour,&rdquo; insisting Pakistan had done nothing wrong. He further warned that such incidents risk making India a subject of ridicule in world cricket.

Akmal slams India over Asia Cup 2025 row, urges PCB to cut ties in multi-nation events

Kamran Akmal Urges PCB to Boycott India

Akmal slams India over Asia Cup 2025 row, urges PCB to cut ties in multi-nation events

September 30, 2025 | 12:50 IST