(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Asia Cup 2025 Ends in Controversy as Indian Team Declines Trophy Handover
DUBAI: The conclusion of the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 turned controversial on Sunday after the Indian cricket team declined to accept the official winners’ trophy from ACC President and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Trophy Controversy Sparks Debate
Despite securing a five-wicket victory against Pakistan in the final, the Men in Blue left the Dubai International Cricket Stadium without receiving the silverware. The post-match ceremony was cut short when the team reportedly refused to collect the trophy, marking an unusual end to the tournament.
Presenter Simon Doull confirmed during the broadcast: “I have been informed by the ACC that the Indian cricket team will not be collecting their awards tonight. So that does conclude the post-match presentation.”
Pakistan’s captain Salman Agha described the move as “bad for cricket,” pointing to the tensions that had overshadowed the event.
Social Media Reaction
The situation gained further attention after Indian cricketers, including Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill, and Tilak Varma, shared images on social media posing with edited photos of a trophy sticker instead of the official prize.
The posts quickly went viral, with fans and commentators questioning the decision to celebrate with a “virtual trophy” while refusing the real one. Some critics labeled the move as unnecessary posturing, while others connected it to broader political issues between the two nations.
Political Undercurrents at Play
This year’s Asia Cup had already seen strained relations between officials and players, with no customary handshakes exchanged during matches. The trophy handover controversy added fuel to the debate over how political tensions are influencing cricket in South Asia.
Looking Ahead
While India celebrated their on-field triumph, the unusual end to the tournament has shifted focus from cricketing achievements to off-field disputes. The incident is expected to prompt discussions within the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) about future hosting arrangements and presentation protocols.
