Cricket crazy India’s national team scored a dramatic five-wicket win over its arch rival Pakistan. The final of the Asia Cup was played on September 28, 2025 in the Dubai International Stadium. Tilak Varma, an Indian base player, was an important cog in this triumph. He played a scintillating hand of 69 runs in just 53 balls, guiding India to a comfortable chase of 147 runs. The game concluded amidst controversy. The Indian team refused to receive the winners’ trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairman of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
In a deeply polarised social and political climate, Varma played a stabilising role, anchoring India’s innings. His methodical knock included four sixes and three fours. The chase was marked by challenging moments, but Varma’s measured approach ultimately led to India’s triumph. This victory marked India’s ninth Asia Cup title, further solidifying its dominance in the tournament’s history.
Pakistan got off to a good start, setting an opening stand of 84 runs between Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman. Farhan played a big role, smashing a blistering 57 runs from 38 deliveries before falling in the 10th over. Zaman contributed significantly, with 46 runs off just 35 balls. It was the Indian bowling attack—with Kuldeep Yadav at the helm—that greatly hampered Pakistan’s scoring capabilities. Yadav emerged as India’s star bowler, grabbing four wickets for only 30 runs in his allotted four overs. As it turned out, Shakib went on to finish the tournament as the leading wicket-taker, claiming a stunning 17 wickets.
Despite some challenges along the way in the chase, India reached their target thanks to Varma’s calm presence atop the order. The post-match presentation ceremony was postponed for over an hour. The absence of clear, detailed explanations in turn stoked the ire and resistances that swirled around the controversial event.
Varma went on to bag player of the final honor, and Abhishek Sharma was awarded the best batter of the tournament with 314 runs to his credit. The Indian side made headlines by walking out of the presentation ceremony. Many members of the team refused to appear. Not collecting their medals or the Asia Cup trophy raised eyebrows and opened up to discussion of deeper problems.
“Indian team refuses to accept Asia Cup winners’ trophy from Pakistan minister and ACC head Mohsin Naqvi,” – Press Trust of India
His decision not to attend the presentation ceremony is proving controversial. Supporters of the Indian team’s position are celebrating, particularly in light of increasing political hostility in the area. The rejection of the trophy represents something much bigger than sports. It sheds light on the intricate and fraught history between India and Pakistan.
