The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan was full of excitement, but what happened after the match surprised everyone even more.
India played really well and won the match by 5 wickets. This was their ninth Asia Cup title, and fans were expecting a big celebration. But when it was time to receive the winner’s trophy, something unexpected happened — Team India refused to take it.
Why Did India Say No to the Trophy?
The reason behind this decision was political. The trophy was to be given by Mohsin Naqvi, who is the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and also Pakistan’s Interior Minister.
This act was not done in anger, but as a silent protest. The Indian players also did not shake hands with Naqvi during the ceremony. It was a quiet but clear message.
The Refusal
India made it clear that they were not comfortable receiviang the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, due to his political role and some of his controversial comments and social media posts made during the tournament. They believe his public behavior showed an anti-India stance.
The BCCI and team management informed the ACC in advance about their concerns. They suggested that the trophy could be presented instead by Khalid Al Zarooni, the Vice Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board. However, this request was not accepted, which led to India’s public refusal at the ceremony.
This act was not done in anger, but as a silent protest. The Indian players also did not shake hands with Naqvi during the ceremony. It was a quiet but clear message.
What Did the Indian Team Say?
After the match, BCCI officials confirmed that the team chose not to take the trophy because of political reasons. They said it was a peaceful protest to show that sports should not be used for political gains. The team still accepted individual awards, like Player of the Match, but left the main trophy behind.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav also spoke about the situation. He said the team was proud of the win, but the way the ceremony was handled did not feel right.
How Did Fans React?
Fans around the world had mixed reactions. Some people supported India’s decision, saying it showed strong values and national pride. Others felt that politics should be kept out of sports and that the moment should have been about celebrating cricket.
Still, many agreed that this was a powerful message, and one that will be remembered in cricket history for a long time.
What Happens Next?
The BCCI is planning to file a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC). They believe that someone holding a high political post should not be allowed to lead a neutral cricket organization like the ACC.
This event might lead to new rules about who can be involved in major cricket ceremonies in the future.
Final Thoughts
India’s win was a proud moment, but the refusal to accept the trophy turned it into something more — a statement. Whether you agree or not, one thing is clear: this Asia Cup final was about more than just cricket.