'We Meet Everyone': Mohsin Naqvi's Post-Asia Cup Ritual

Breaking the Ritual: A New Kind of Celebration?

It was a quiet moment at the Asia Cup final in Chennai, where the Indian women's cricket team stood by their trophy ceremony, yet Mohsin Naqvi, the president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), chose a different path. After the match, while most expected him to be at the podium with the winning players, Naqvi made his way directly to the BCCI officials who had worked tirelessly behind the scenes—Rajeev Shukla and Devajit Saikia.

"We meet everyone," Naqvi said after the game, echoing a tradition that has quietly become part of India's sports culture. "It's not just about the trophy; it's about recognizing the people who make these moments possible."

This wasn't just a symbolic gesture—it was a conscious choice to highlight the unsung heroes of Indian cricket. As the country's most celebrated sporting institution, the BCCI often operates behind closed doors, with many fans not knowing the faces or names of those who manage everything from player development to match logistics.

A Personal Touch in Professional Sport

Naqvi's actions are in line with his leadership style. Known for being approachable and deeply rooted in cricket's grassroots, he's often described as a leader who sees the game through the eyes of players, coaches, and fans alike. His decision to spend time with Shukla and Saikia, rather than celebrate on stage, reflects that personal touch.

Rajeev Shukla, the BCCI's Director of Cricket Operations, plays a crucial role in managing all match-day operations, including security, broadcasting, and infrastructure. Devajit Saikia, who holds a key position in the BCCI's media and communications department, has been instrumental in shaping how Indian cricket interacts with global audiences.

By meeting them after the final, Naqvi didn't just recognize their roles—he validated their importance within the broader framework of Indian cricket. It was an act that resonated not only with those in attendance but also with fans who were watching from home, many of whom were curious about the behind-the-scenes operations of the game they love.

Tradition Meets Modernity

The move also underscores how India's cricket culture is evolving. While the traditional trophy ceremony has always been a time for celebration and public recognition, the newer generation of leaders within the BCCI is redefining what those moments mean. Naqvi's actions align with the broader shift in Indian sports leadership—toward transparency, inclusivity, and emotional connection.

As Indian cricket grows globally, so does its commitment to recognizing every player and official who contributes to its success. Whether it's a young academy hopeful or a seasoned media executive, the culture is shifting toward one that values the full spectrum of cricket's ecosystem.

What Others Are Saying

The reaction to Naqvi's decision was swift. While some questioned why he wasn't at the podium, others praised the move as a refreshing departure from standard protocol. In an interview with local media, Shukla said, "Meeting Mohsin Naqvi after such a moment is a great honor. It shows that leadership matters not just in strategy, but in empathy."

Saikia echoed this sentiment: "He's someone who understands that the game isn't just about players and fans—it's about everyone working together behind the scenes. That's what makes Indian cricket unique."

Many fans took to social media to share their thoughts, with one user writing, "Finally, a leader who respects the people who make it all happen. That's leadership in action." Another said, "Naqvi may not have stood on stage, but he definitely stood tall in spirit."

Looking Forward: The Next Chapter

This small act of recognition may seem minor, but in a world where sports are increasingly commodified, it stands out. It signals a deeper shift in how India's leadership is thinking about the game—and its people.

As we look ahead to future tournaments and the evolving narrative of Indian cricket, Naqvi's approach offers a powerful reminder: the real heroes aren't always the ones in the spotlight. They're the ones who make it all possible behind the scenes.

In a landscape where sports personalities are often reduced to their performance stats, Naqvi's actions remind us that leadership in sport is as much about recognition and humanity as it is about strategy and results.