India has struck again — in high style. On 28 September 2025, Team India clinched the Asia Cup title in a dramatic final against Pakistan. But unlike most wins, this one came wrapped in controversy, emotion, and fierce national pride.
📌 Context & Format
- The 2025 Asia Cup was played in the UAE from 9 to 28 September, in T20 format.
- India came in as defending champions from 2023.
- The final pitted archrivals India vs Pakistan — a first for an Asia Cup final.
🏏 The Match: Collapse & Comeback
- Pakistan’s Collapse: After a strong start at 113/1, they lost 9 wickets for 33 runs, folding for 146 in 19.1 overs. Kuldeep Yadav starred with 4/30.
- India’s Pursuit: Starting shakily at 20/3, India steadied thanks to Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 off 53 balls and a vital stand with Shivam Dube (33). The chase ended with just two balls to spare.
- India won by 5 wickets — claiming their ninth Asia Cup title.
⚡ Trophy Snub & Post‑Match Tensions
This match had more than the usual post-victory handshake.
| Incident | What Happened |
|---|---|
| Refused Trophy | India declined to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, ACC chief & PCB chairman. |
| Delayed / Cancelled Ceremony | The presentation was delayed; ultimately, the trophy was not formally handed over. |
| No Handshakes | Throughout the tournament, Indian and Pakistani teams avoided traditional handshake rituals. |
| India’s Stand | Captain Suryakumar Yadav later said India was “denied” its right to lift the trophy. |
| Pak Reaction | Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha accused India of disrespect, saying behavior was “disrespectful to cricket.” |
| Significance & Reception in India | From streets to social media, the win is celebrated as pride regained. |
🎯 Why This Final Is Historic
- It was the first Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan.
- India dominated all three matchups with Pakistan in the tournament: group stage, Super 4, and final.
- The trophy controversy brought politics onto the pitch, overshadowing the sport.
- BCCI later announced a Rs 21 crore reward for the team.
