DUBAI: India defeated Pakistan by five wickets to win the Asia Cup 2025 final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, but celebrations were overshadowed by an unusual off-field controversy over the trophy presentation.
Reports suggest the Indian team refused to accept the tournament trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also heads the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Sources said the decision came on the instructions of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Despite pressure from Indian officials, Naqvi refused to step aside, insisting on personally presenting the trophy. As a result, the post-match ceremony concluded without a handover, and the trophy was later moved to the ACC office.
On the field, Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 off 53 balls anchored India’s chase of 147 after a shaky start. Despite losing Abhishek Sharma (5), skipper Suryakumar Yadav (1), and Shubman Gill (12) cheaply, Varma stabilized the innings alongside Sanju Samson in a 57-run stand. Shivam Dube’s 33 off 22 balls added further momentum in a decisive 60-run partnership with Varma. India sealed victory in 19.4 overs, securing their ninth Asia Cup crown and extending their dominance in regional cricket.
Earlier, Pakistan squandered a strong start after openers Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46) powered them to 84 without loss. Once Varun Chakravarthy dismissed Farhan, the middle order crumbled against Kuldeep Yadav’s spin, with the left-armer claiming 4 for 30. Pakistan were bowled out for 146 in 19.1 overs, with Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah picking up two wickets each. Despite flashes of brilliance, Pakistan were left to rue their batting collapse, while India celebrated another Asia Cup triumph — albeit without the traditional trophy presentation.