Why Team India Walked Away Without the Asia Cup Trophy—The Untold Drama in Dubai
India’s Asia Cup Win Turns Controversial: Trophy Drama Unfolds in Dubai
India’s emphatic victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final should have been a moment of pure celebration. Instead, it turned into a diplomatic and sporting standoff that left fans stunned and the cricketing world buzzing. The Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi, triggering a wave of reactions and a formal protest from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Why India Didn’t Take the Trophy
The controversy began moments after India clinched a five-wicket win against Pakistan. As the post-match ceremony began, ACC president Mohsin Naqvi—who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister and heads the Pakistan Cricket Board—was set to present the trophy. However, Team India had already made it clear: they would not accept the trophy from him.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia explained the decision, stating, “India cannot receive honours from someone waging a war against our country.” The team’s stance was firm, and the presentation ceremony stalled for nearly 90 minutes.
BCCI’s Strong Reaction and ICC Protest
The BCCI didn’t hold back. Saikia called Naqvi’s act of walking away with the trophy “childish” and “unsporting.” He confirmed that India will lodge a strong protest at the upcoming ICC meeting in Dubai this November.
“We hope the trophy and medals will be returned to India as soon as possible,” Saikia said.
The board also announced a ₹21 crore cash reward for the Indian squad, including players and support staff, recognizing their dominant performance throughout the tournament.
A Moment of National Pride and Protest
While the trophy drama stole headlines, India’s performance on the field was nothing short of spectacular. Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 and Kuldeep Yadav’s 4-wicket haul dismantled Pakistan’s hopes. The team’s refusal to accept the trophy was seen by many as a symbolic gesture of national pride and political resistance.
External Links for Further Reading
- BCCI’s Official Statement on Trophy Row
- Asia Cup Final Highlights – India vs Pakistan
- ICC November Meeting Agenda
