Dubai: India may have clinched the Asia Cup 2025 with a thrilling 5-wicket victory over Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday, but the celebrations were clouded by a dramatic trophy controversy.

In a shocking turn of events, Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) head Mohsin Naqvi left the stadium with the winners’ trophy and medals, leaving the Indian players to celebrate without them.

Indian Cricket Board secretary Devajit Saikia expressed outrage at Naqvi’s actions, calling them “unsportsmanlike.”

“It is totally unexpected for the gentleman to run away with the Asia Cup trophy to his hotel room. We cannot accept a trophy from a person who represents a country that is waging a war against our country, but that does not mean he should deny our players their moment. At least we hope his good sense will prevail and he will send the trophy back to India,” Saikia told ANI.

 

The presentation ceremony descended into chaos after the final whistle. The Indian team did not receive their medals or the trophy.

Instead, once the dignitaries had departed, the players mounted the podium alone, celebrating their victory in front of fans — but without the silverware that symbolised their triumph.

Saikia confirmed that the BCCI would lodge a strong protest against the incident with the Asian Cricket Council. Meanwhile, to honour the team’s effort, the BCCI announced a prize of ₹21 crore for players and support staff.