India celebrate win with ‘imaginary trophy’ after ceremony standoff (Video)

September 29, 2025 at 9:01 AM

India clinched the Asia Cup title with a tense two-ball victory over Pakistan on Sunday, but the post-match celebration was overshadowed by a dramatic standoff at the presentation ceremony.

The Indian team refused to accept the trophy or medals from Asian Cricket Council Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s interior minister. The team stood firm even after a delay of more than an hour, insisting the award be handed by another dignitary.

Eventually, individual prizes such as Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament were handed out by other officials, but the championship trophy was removed from the stage without being presented.

With no official handover, Indian players later celebrated by posing with their hands raised as if they were holding the trophy in an imaginary celebration.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that India would file a formal protest with the International Cricket Council. Captain Suryakumar Yadav called the situation unprecedented, saying, “It is shocking for a champion team to be denied a trophy.”

The incident has intensified the already strained cricketing ties between the two neighbors and raised questions about future tournament protocols.