After India's spectacular victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, the trophy ceremony became embroiled in controversy. On this dispute, former South African cricketer AB de Villiers gave a clear message that politics and cricket should be kept separate.
Sports News: India won the Asia Cup 2025 title by defeating Pakistan in the final match. However, after this victory, the trophy ceremony became mired in controversy. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and the team's players refused to accept the trophy from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Following this, Mohsin Naqvi took the trophy and medals to his hotel. After his actions, the BCCI warned him that if he did not return the trophy, a complaint would be lodged with the ICC.
The Full Story of the Trophy Controversy
The final match of the Asia Cup 2025 was played between India and Pakistan in Dubai. India claimed the title by defeating Pakistan in a thrilling encounter. However, a controversy arose during the trophy ceremony after the win. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and other team players refused to accept the trophy from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Following this, Mohsin Naqvi took the trophy and medals with him to the hotel. The BCCI then threatened that if the trophy was not returned, the matter would be taken to the ICC. However, Mohsin Naqvi could not hand over the trophy directly to India and instead handed it over to the UAE Cricket Board before departing for Lahore.
What did AB de Villiers say?
Former South African star batsman AB de Villiers shared his opinion on the controversy in his YouTube show. He stated that the Indian team was not happy about who was presenting the trophy, but politics should not have a place in cricket. In his words, "Team India was not happy with who was giving the trophy. But I don't think politics should have a place in sports. Sport should remain sport — it was sad to see."
De Villiers said that such controversies affect the mental state of players and impact the core purpose of the game. He emphasized that the enjoyment and competition of the sport should entirely be on the field, not due to political interference.
Also Praised Team India
AB de Villiers openly praised the performance of the Indian team. He said that India currently looks very b, and this is a positive sign for their T20 World Cup preparations. He also lauded the Indian team's talent and confidence. "Team India is playing brilliantly in big situations. They have no shortage of talent, and young players are proving themselves in major matches," de Villiers stated.
