Wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson recently shed some light on the peculiar controversy surrounding the Asia Cup trophy, which followed India’s thrilling victory over Pakistan in Dubai. Despite their ninth Asia Cup triumph, the team was left without the physical silverware.
The situation arose because Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s Interior Minister, reportedly departed the stadium with the trophy during the post-match presentation chaos. This incident occurred ten days after India’s win.
The final match, which saw India emerge victorious after a nail-biting finish, descended into confusion as players initially declined to accept the trophy from Naqvi. Shortly after, an official removed the cup from its display stand and carried it away, leaving both the Indian players and their fans utterly baffled.
However, Samson, speaking at a Mumbai event, shared how the team maintained a positive outlook and even made light of the strange predicament. He explained, “It was a bit strange, but we actually have a very positive environment in our dressing room. Even if we don’t have anything, we have to celebrate that we have everything in our hands. So actually that’s what we did.”
The Rajasthan Royals captain confirmed that this unusual moment did not dampen the team’s celebratory mood. In a memorable gesture of protest and good humor, Captain Suryakumar Yadav mimicked Rohit Sharma’s distinctive slow walk from the 2024 T20 World Cup final before the entire squad collectively lifted an “imaginary trophy.”
This incident has since escalated into an administrative dispute. Initial reports suggested that Naqvi had apologized to the BCCI for the disruption. However, the ACC chief has since denied offering any apology, reportedly stating that if India genuinely desires the trophy, they are welcome to collect it from the ACC headquarters.
As of now, the actual trophy remains missing. Nevertheless, Samson’s candid reaction stands as another symbolic victory for Team India, affirming that regardless of the physical silverware, their Asia Cup triumph remains undisputed.