Dubai: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Monday condemned the controversial post-match incident at the Asia Cup 2025 final, calling it “very unfortunate and unsporting,” and confirmed that a formal protest will be lodged at the ICC conference in Dubai in early November.
India’s record ninth Asia Cup triumph over Pakistan yesterday night was overshadowed by the unprecedented drama, when Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi reportedly walked away with the winners’ trophy immediately after India’s five-wicket win, leaving the stage empty and fans stunned.
The Indian team had reportedly warned organizers beforehand that they would not step on stage if Naqvi attempted to hand over the trophy.
“India has dominated Pakistan throughout the tournament, winning all three matches convincingly. We are proud of our players and staff, and their performance brings immense glory to the country,” Saikia said. He also confirmed a cash reward of 21 crore rupees for the team and support staff.
On the field, India’s dominance was clear. Kuldeep Yadav’s 4/30 dismantled Pakistan’s middle order after Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46) had given them a promising start.
India chased down the modest target comfortably, with Tilak Varma (69 not out) and Shivam Dube (33) sharing a composed 60-run partnership to seal the victory.
Saikia highlighted India’s adherence to sporting policy: “We have always followed the Government of India’s guidelines on bilateral matches. Today, with a 3-0 series sweep over Pakistan, the team has made the nation proud while respecting these principles.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the team’s performance, calling it “Operation Sindoor on the games field,” and saluted India’s dominance against arch-rivals Pakistan.
The victory also saw gestures of patriotism and solidarity from the Captain Suryakumar Yadav as he donated his match fees to the Indian armed forces, reinforcing his commitment to the country beyond the cricket field.
Despite the off-field drama, India’s performance across the tournament remained the highlight: flawless victories, strategic bowling in the middle overs, and composed batting under pressure ensured that India not only lifted the Asia Cup trophy—but also cemented its dominance in Asian cricket.
