Image credit: X account @surya_14kumar
“Never Seen A Champion Team Denied Hard-Earned Trophy” Says Surya
India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed disbelief after the Indian team was refused the Asia Cup trophy following their victory over Pakistan. Yadav said, “I have never seen in all my years of playing and following cricket a champion team denied a trophy.”
India’s Win In The Final
The controversy followed India’s 5-wicket win over Pakistan in the final in Dubai. Pakistan were bowled out for 146 in 19.1 overs and India chased the target successfully, finishing at 150/5 in 19.4 overs. It was the first Asia Cup final between the two arch-rivals, and India’s win secured their ninth Asia Cup title.
Trophy Presentation Dispute
Normally, the winning team receives the trophy from a dignitary. This time, however, the Indian team refused to accept it from Mohsin Naqvi, who is both ACC President and Pakistan’s Interior Minister. The ceremony was delayed for over an hour, and at one point the trophy was removed from the field. While individual awards were collected, the team trophy was left unclaimed.
Surya’s Message To Team
Despite the incident, Yadav praised his teammates and support staff. He highlighted that the real sense of victory lies in the unity, effort, and spirit shown on the field rather than in a physical trophy. His comments underline how political disputes can overshadow sporting achievements in the India-Pakistan rivalry.
