The 2025 Asia Cup final in Dubai concluded with India defeating Pakistan by five wickets, but the celebrations were unlike any before. The Indian cricket team chose not to accept the winner’s trophy from Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as the president of the Asian Cricket Council and chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Officials confirmed that the post-match presentation was cut short following India’s refusal. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia stated that the players had declined the trophy due to Naqvi’s political affiliations.
Despite this, pyrotechnics lit up the Dubai International Cricket Stadium as Indian players celebrated on the field, highlighting a complex mix of triumph and tension.
Tensions Rooted in Politics
This decision was not isolated. Throughout the tournament, clashes between the Indian and Pakistani teams were heavily influenced by political tensions. Early in the series, Indian players skipped the customary handshake with their Pakistani counterparts. The move was cited as a gesture of solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam attack in May, which claimed at least 26 lives.
Both teams faced penalties for controversial actions. Pakistan’s fast bowler Haris Rauf was fined after making a gesture referencing the downing of Indian fighter jets, while Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav was also fined after dedicating India’s victory over Pakistan to the bravery of the Indian armed forces.
These incidents set the stage for a final match that was as politically charged as it was competitive.
On-Field Highlights
On the field, the match showcased excellent performances. Pakistan set a modest target of 147 runs, which India chased with determination. Kuldeep Yadav took four key wickets, while Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 runs guided India to a last-over finish.
The game ended with jubilation for Indian fans, but the absence of the trophy created a unique and unusual scene for such a high-profile final.
Reactions to the Trophy Refusal
The Indian team’s decision drew mixed responses. Officials from India emphasised that the refusal was strictly due to the trophy being presented by the ACC chief with ties to Pakistan, rather than any disrespect towards cricket itself.
Pakistan’s captain, Salman Agha, however, expressed disappointment, suggesting that the refusal undermined the spirit of the sport. Despite the controversy, players from both sides acknowledged the competitive nature of the game and the skill displayed on the field.
Local fans in Dubai witnessed a rare scene: a victorious team celebrating without the physical trophy, underlining how political tensions can intersect with international sports.
Broader Implications for Cricket
The incident in Dubai raises questions about the influence of politics on sporting events. The BCCI has indicated it will discuss the matter with the International Cricket Council (ICC), while Pakistani officials have called for maintaining decorum in future tournaments.
For the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, the final remained a spectacle. Packed stands, enthusiastic fans, and live pyrotechnics ensured that the event retained its entertainment value despite the off-field tensions. For Dubai residents, the match reinforced the city’s status as a premier hub for international cricket events, capable of hosting high-stakes tournaments with global attention.
While India celebrated their Asia Cup 2025 win, the trophy controversy will likely be discussed for weeks. The focus now shifts to how the ACC and ICC handle post-match protocols in politically sensitive fixtures.
Dubai, as the host city, continues to strengthen its reputation for world-class cricket facilities and fan experiences. Residents and tourists alike can expect upcoming international matches in the UAE to combine thrilling on-field action with a vibrant stadium atmosphere.
India’s refusal to accept the Asia Cup trophy in Dubai added an unexpected chapter to cricketing history. The victory on the field stood clear, yet the absence of the trophy highlighted the subtle yet significant role of politics in international sport. For Dubai audiences, it was a moment of both excitement and reflection—a reminder of the city’s growing prominence on the global cricket stage.
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