The Asia Cup 2025 final ended with India defeating Pakistan by 5 wickets in Dubai, but the post-match celebrations turned controversial after the Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
Why Did India Refuse the Trophy?
According to reports, the Indian team cited Mohsin Naqvi’s political position and anti-India stance as the reason for their refusal. The move created an awkward situation during the award ceremony, leaving Asian Cricket Council (ACC) officials scrambling for a solution.
90-Minute Standoff at the Ceremony
Media reports suggest that Naqvi interrupted the ceremony, leading to a 90-minute standoff. Eventually, the decision was made to remove the team trophy from the event altogether. While individual players received medals, Team India did not lift a trophy on stage.
ACC officials reportedly suggested that the trophy be presented instead by Khalid Al Jarooni, Vice President of the Emirates Cricket Board, but the situation could not be resolved in time.
Reactions from India and Pakistan
Following the victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Team India on social media, writing:
“Operation Sindoor is being carried out on the field of play, and the result is the same: India wins.”
This statement sparked strong reactions across Pakistan. Responding to Modi’s remark, Mohsin Naqvi said:
“If war were the measure of your pride, then history has already recorded your humiliating defeat at the hands of Pakistan. No cricket match can change that truth. Dragging war into the game only exposes frustration and insults the spirit of the game.”
A Cloud Over the Celebration
The controversy has overshadowed India’s title-winning performance, with debates continuing over whether political figures should be directly involved in sporting ceremonies. The absence of a trophy presentation has now become one of the most talked-about aspects of the Asia Cup 2025 final.
