AB de Villiers called India’s refusal to take the Asia Cup trophy from ACC President Mohsin Naqvi “awkward” and harmful for cricket’s image.
Ceremony controversy derails celebrations after the final
The Asia Cup 2025 final ended in confusion. Indian players declined to shake hands with Pakistan’s team and then refused to receive the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who also chairs the Pakistan Cricket Board.
The standoff delayed the presentation by about an hour and drew loud criticism from fans and former players.
Presenter Simon Doull later confirmed that the ceremony would conclude without a trophy handover. Only individual awards were given on stage.
Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dube, and Tilak Varma collected performance prizes, while Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha accepted the runners up cheque. The main trophy never left the podium.
AB de Villiers and others warn the game’s image is at stake
Speaking on his YouTube channel, AB de Villiers 360, the former South Africa captain said the scene was “quite sad to see.”
He added that sport should be celebrated for what it is and that politics must stay aside.
His view echoed a growing backlash across the cricket community. Former India coach Ravi Shastri also criticised how the situation was handled.
Many observers said the delay and the refusal to observe basic protocols hurt the spirit of the competition and overshadowed the players’ efforts on the field.
Individual honours announced as debate shifts to future protocols
Despite the dispute, tournament awards were confirmed. Kuldeep Yadav finished as the top wicket taker.
Abhishek Sharma took the Player of the Tournament award. Ironically, Indian players accepted their individual medals, but the team did not accept the trophy from the ACC chief.
The episode has sparked calls for clearer presentation rules and early agreement on dignitaries before major finals.
Administrators now face pressure to protect match traditions, ensure respectful post match conduct, and keep political disagreements away from the spotlight.
