PCB Chief Sparks Controversy by Fleeing with Asia Cup Trophy Amidst Turmoil in Dubai
The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan concluded in a dramatic fashion on Sunday night in Dubai, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi reportedly left the presentation ceremony with the winners’ trophy. India, who triumphed over Pakistan by five wickets to secure their ninth Asia Cup title, refused to accept the trophy from Naqvi, leading to a tense standoff that disrupted the ceremony. The situation escalated as Indian fans booed and chanted in the stadium, creating a charged atmosphere.
India’s Victory and Performance Highlights
India’s performance in the final was marked by a strong batting display and effective bowling. Tilak Varma played a pivotal role in the chase, scoring an unbeaten 69 runs off 53 balls. His partnership with Shivam Dube, who contributed 33 runs, was crucial in steering India to victory. Earlier in the match, Kuldeep Yadav’s impressive bowling figures of 4 wickets for 30 runs dismantled Pakistan’s middle order, limiting them to a total of 146 runs. Pakistan’s innings began positively with Sahibzada Farhan scoring 57 and Fakhar Zaman adding 46, but they faltered as India’s bowlers took control.
Trophy Presentation Controversy
The trophy presentation turned chaotic when Mohsin Naqvi attempted to present the trophy to the Indian team. The players stood firm, refusing to accept the silverware from him, citing prior disagreements and a lack of respect. Reports indicate that the Indian team had previously communicated to the ACC that Naqvi was not an acceptable figure for the presentation. This refusal led to a prolonged delay, with Naqvi awkwardly waiting on stage as the atmosphere grew increasingly hostile, marked by loud chants from Indian fans.
Pakistan’s Reaction and Aftermath
In a surprising twist, the Pakistan team remained in their dressing room for nearly an hour after the match, leaving Naqvi stranded on stage. When they finally emerged, they were met with loud chants of “Indiaaaa, Indiaaaa” from the crowd, further emphasizing the tension of the evening. The chaotic presentation overshadowed India’s significant achievement in winning the Asia Cup, marking a memorable yet tumultuous conclusion to the tournament. The events of the night will likely be remembered as much for the cricket as for the unprecedented drama surrounding the trophy presentation.
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