Trophy Drama Overshadows India’s Asia Cup Triumph Over Pakistan

India clinched the Asia Cup for a record ninth time after defeating arch‑rivals Pakistan by five wickets, but the celebrations were marred by extraordinary scenes during the post‑match presentation.

The ceremony began nearly an hour after the final whistle, with Asian Cricket Council and Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi present on stage. Throughout the event, however, Naqvi remained silent.

Tensions escalated when Naqvi and other dignitaries abruptly walked off the stage. Officials later confirmed that the Indian team had refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister.

With the dignitaries gone, Indian players posed for photographs without the trophy, a rare and controversial moment in cricket history. The unusual protest has reignited debate over whether the sport still lives up to its reputation as the “gentleman’s game.”