India’s magnificent Asia Cup victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai was unfortunately overshadowed by a truly bizarre incident immediately after the final ball. The post-match presentation ceremony descended into chaos when Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president, reportedly took possession of the winners’ trophy and left the stage. This left players and fans utterly bewildered.
In response, the victorious Indian team, having convincingly defeated Pakistan by five wickets, firmly declined to accept the trophy from Naqvi. Reports indicate that the players had already communicated their stance to the organizers, making it clear they would not participate in a trophy handover if the PCB chief was involved. The image shows BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia commenting on the unusual events that unfolded after India’s Asia Cup final win.
Following the contentious incident, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia addressed the media, extending his congratulations to the team while also expressing strong disapproval regarding the post-match controversy. He stated, “The BCCI is incredibly proud and happy. We extend our warmest congratulations to the Indian cricket team for their dominant performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. They secured victories convincingly in the group stage, the Super 4, and ultimately, the final. All three matches were decidedly one-sided, and we commend our players and support staff for bringing immense glory to our nation. Our team’s performance on the cricket pitch was nothing short of excellent.”
Saikia seized the moment to emphasize the profound national significance of the victory. “Just as our armed forces excel in border areas, our team has delivered a similar triumph in Dubai. This is a truly remarkable and momentous occasion for Indian cricket, filling us with immense national pride,” he remarked.
Addressing the team’s achievements, Saikia also confirmed a significant cash reward for the players. “We are delighted with their outstanding performance on the field, securing a resounding 3-0 victory against Pakistan with virtually no opposition. To acknowledge their exceptional effort, we have decided to award the Indian team a cash prize of 21 crores. This amount will be shared among all the players and the dedicated support staff.”
However, Saikia’s most forceful remarks were directed at the trophy controversy itself. “While we had decided not to accept the trophy from the ACC chairman, given his leadership role in Pakistan, it is utterly unacceptable that the gentleman would simply walk away with both the trophy and the medals. This act is deeply unfortunate and profoundly unsporting. We fully expect the trophy and medals to be promptly returned to India,” he asserted.
Furthermore, Saikia confirmed that the BCCI intends to file a formal complaint. “We will absolutely pursue this matter. An upcoming ICC conference in Dubai during the first week of November will be the platform where we will lodge a very serious and strong protest against the ACC chairperson’s actions,” he declared.
Despite the off-field drama, the Asia Cup final itself delivered some remarkable cricketing moments. Kuldeep Yadav was instrumental with his spell of 4/30, dismantling Pakistan’s middle order after Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46) had provided a solid opening. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for a modest 146 runs, setting India an achievable target. India’s chase was expertly managed by Tilak Varma, who scored a composed 69 not out, and Shivam Dube, with 33 runs, as they guided their team to victory with a crucial 60-run partnership.
Saikia underscored that India’s victory aligned perfectly with the nation’s long-standing sporting policy. He elaborated, “From its inception, the BCCI has consistently adhered to the principles and policies set forth by the Government of India for all sports, and cricket is no different. When it comes to bilateral tournaments, India does not compete against Pakistan or any other nation deemed hostile. The BCCI has maintained this stance for the past 12 to 15 years. However, today’s impressive 3-0 series win over Pakistan, a truly emphatic victory, will undoubtedly bring immense joy to our people. The entire country rightfully beams with pride over the Indian cricket team’s exceptional performance.”
He concluded with a concise and optimistic message, affirming, “Yes, absolutely. I agree with your sentiment that all’s well that ends well.”