Dubai, September 29, 2025India clinched their record-extending ninth Asia Cup title with a thrilling 5-wicket win over Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium. Tilak Verma’s unbeaten 69 propelled India to victory in a fiercely contested final. However, the post-match celebrations were marred by unprecedented drama as the Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Pakistan Cricket Board chairman and Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi, also Pakistan’s interior minister.

Despite India’s emphatic win, the trophy presentation was delayed for over an hour amid tense negotiations. The Indian team had requested the trophy be handed over by an Emirates Cricket Board official, a plea denied by Naqvi, who insisted on presenting it himself. Protested by Indian players and fans alike, Naqvi abruptly took the trophy away, leaving the victors without their deserved silverware on stage.

The Indian team mocked the absence by mimicking trophy celebrations and sharing trophy emojis on social media.The episode sparked boos from Indian supporters and drew sharp criticism.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia condemned the act as unsportsmanlike and vowed to formally protest at the upcoming ICC conference in Dubai.

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav strongly criticized the Asian Cricket Council for the denial, calling it unprecedented in cricket history.

Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha criticized India’s refusal to accept the trophy from Naqvi.

The chaotic aftermath overshadowed India’s triumphant performance and highlighted ongoing political tensions influencing sporting events between the two nations. While the men in blue celebrated their historic win on the field, the off-field controversy dominated headlines, leaving a sour note on one of Asia’s biggest cricketing showdowns.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar