The Asia Cup 2025 final may have ended with India clinching the title after a five-wicket win over Pakistan, but the post-match trophy ceremony became the biggest talking point of the night. India’s players refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief and the country’s Interior Minister, sparking a new wave of controversy.
India Refuses Trophy From ACC Chief Mohsin Naqvi
Tensions were already high before the final whistle, with Suryakumar Yadav once again skipping the customary handshake with Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha. But the real drama unfolded during the post-match presentation ceremony.
Despite the protocol stating that the ACC chairperson should present the trophy, India’s players declined to receive it from Naqvi, reportedly due to his recent comments and failure to uphold neutrality as ACC head. The presentation was briefly delayed, and after individual awards were handed out, host Simon Doull concluded the ceremony by announcing that the Indian team “would not be collecting their awards tonight.”
“BCCI Had No Role In The Decision” – Suryakumar
Following the match, Suryakumar was asked whether the BCCI had instructed the team to boycott the presentation. He categorically denied any involvement from the board, stating that the call was made collectively by the players on the field.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about with the email. I have no idea about this,” Suryakumar said. “We took this call on the ground. No one told us to do this. If you win a tournament and play well throughout, don’t you deserve the trophy? You tell me.”
The skipper’s remarks suggest that the gesture was a form of silent protest rather than a politically motivated move ordered from above.
India Seal Title Despite Early Setbacks
Chasing 147, India’s start was shaky. Openers Abhishek Sharma (5) and Shubman Gill (12) fell cheaply, and Suryakumar’s own struggles with the bat continued as he was dismissed for 1 off 5 balls by Shaheen Afridi.
However, the middle order held firm. Tilak Varma (69)* anchored the chase with support from Sanju Samson (24) and Shivam Dube (33). Rinku Singh sealed the win with a boundary, taking India to 150/5 in 19.4 overs and securing yet another victory over Pakistan in the tournament.
A Statement Beyond the Scorecard
While the cricket on display was impressive, India’s trophy boycott and Suryakumar’s strong words have ensured that the final will be remembered for more than just the result. The move, seen by many as a statement of principle, underscores how the India-Pakistan rivalry often extends beyond the pitch — and how players themselves are now taking a stand on issues traditionally left to administrators.
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