Trophy Controversy Mars Asia Cup Final in Dubai

The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan ended in chaos on Sunday night in Dubai. After India secured a five-wicket victory, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president, allegedly walked away with the winners' trophy, causing a disruption during the presentation ceremony.

India, having clinched their ninth Asia Cup title, refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi. The Indian players stood away from the stage, stating they would not participate in the ceremony if he attempted to present the trophy. This standoff halted the proceedings, with Naqvi left awkwardly on stage as Indian fans booed and chanted “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”

Reports indicate that the Indian team had previously informed the ACC that Naqvi was not an acceptable figure to present the trophy. This decision followed a series of tense interactions throughout the tournament, including a lack of handshakes between players and the absence of the customary pre-toss photoshoot. An ACC source confirmed that the Indian team made it clear they did not want Naqvi on the podium.

In a further twist, the Pakistan players remained in their dressing room for nearly an hour after the match, leaving Naqvi stranded on stage. When they finally emerged, they were met with loud chants of “Indiaaaa, Indiaaaa” from the crowd.

On the field, India’s performance was commendable. Tilak Varma played a crucial role in the chase, scoring an unbeaten 69 runs off 53 balls, while Kuldeep Yadav took 4 wickets for 30 runs, helping to restrict Pakistan to 146 runs. Despite the trophy fiasco, India celebrated their victory, marking a significant moment in the Asia Cup history.