The Asia Cup 2025 series has become an unforgettable event, especially among the Indian and Pakistani masses. The final match held in the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, 28 September, was undoubtedly one of the most dramatic showdowns of the entire series.
For the winning team, India, it was not just a matter of celebration but also immense pride. The man of the hour, Tilak Verma, with an undefeatable 69 runs, was celebrated by the team, as the Pakistani captain, Salman Ali Agha and his teammates went straight to their dressing rooms after the match. Post the match, there was a clear tension among the teams, followed by chaos as the Pakistani team delayed the post-match presentations.
The Indian cricket team had reportedly refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who is the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Asian Cricket Council president. He also holds the portfolio of Pakistan’s interior minister. This led to further delays as the team requested to receive the trophy from Emirates Board vice-chairman Khalid Al Zarooni. The request was, however, denied, and Naqvi ultimately decided to withhold the trophy and only present the medals.
In all three matches between India and Pakistan, the Indian team has avoided the customary handshake and the pre-toss photoshoot, asserting its stance on the field. It was reported that the Indian cricket team was offended due to Naqvi’s earlier social media post, where he was seen mocking Operation Sindoor. The team’s management clearly informed the ACC board that they were not ready to accept the trophy from the Pakistani minister.
Things have become complicated when Naqvi also decided not to back off, and instead took the trophy back to the board. The drama, however, did not stop here. When the runner-ups of the match went to receive the cheque from the Pakistani Minister, captain Salman Agha threw away the cheque, adding fuel to the fire.
Later, the commentator Simon Doull announced that since the Indian team refused to collect their awards, the post-match ceremony ended. The event has led to waves of controversy on the internet, with people divided into different sides.
