Asia Cup Ends in Chaos: India Denied Trophy Despite Historic Win Over Pakistan

Rinku Singh hit the winning runs as India beat Pakistan to clinch the 2025 Asia Cup — a record-extending ninth title. Yet, the night of triumph ended in chaos, as the victorious Indian team left the ground without the trophy in hand.

Despite dominating the tournament, Suryakumar Yadav’s side was forced to return to their hotel empty-handed after the post-match presentation descended into farce. The ceremony, delayed by over an hour, concluded with the Asia Cup trophy leaving the stadium in the hands of ACC and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi — not the champions.

A Night of Confusion

Until midnight IST, everything appeared routine. Indian players gave interviews, broadcasters wrapped up coverage, and fans awaited the handover of silverware. But reports soon emerged that India did not want to accept the trophy from Naqvi, while others blamed Pakistan’s refusal to take the stage on time.

Naqvi, frequently on his phone during the delay, was greeted with boos and chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” when Pakistan players eventually appeared — some in flip-flops — to collect runner-up medals. Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan’s captain, even tossed aside the runners-up cheque.

Plans briefly shifted to have Emirates Cricket Board vice-chairman Khalid Al Zarooni present the trophy, but in the end, commentator Simon Doull announced that India would not receive the cup that night. With Naqvi exiting the venue and the trophy in tow, the champions sat on the podium without their prize.

Tournament Marred by Acrimony

The fiasco capped a tournament defined by Indo-Pakistani hostility. From the no-handshake controversy to Pakistan players’ provocative gestures, Asia Cup 2025 carried more bitterness than even the politically fraught clashes of 1999 or 2003.

For India, the record-breaking title was overshadowed by yet another controversy — one that highlighted just how deep the rivalry has sunk.