In a finale befitting the tempestuous 2025 Asia Cup, India secured a 5-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan to claim their record-extending 9th Asia Cup title - yet the night ended in chaos. What was meant to be a crowning moment became a farcical spectacle, as India refused to accept the trophy from ACC President & PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, triggering the abrupt cancellation of the presentation.

The presentation was delayed by over an hour before officials quietly removed the trophy from the dais. Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 anchored the chase after Pakistan were bowled out for 146. 

Post-match, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav lamented that his team was “denied” the chance to lift a hard-earned cup. Pakistan captain Salman Agha fired back, claiming India’s conduct was a disrespect to cricket, not just to Pakistan. 

This final may be remembered less for the cricket played and more for the theatrics, and its shadow threatens to linger over future India-Pakistan sporting ties.