Did India Make a Bold Statement Against Pakistan?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India defeated Pakistan in a thrilling match.
- Refusal of the trophy made significant political statements.
- Kuldeep Yadav played a key role in Pakistan's batting collapse.
- Tilak Varma anchored the chase with an unbeaten 69.
- India claimed their ninth Asia Cup title.
New Delhi, Sep 29 (NationPress) The Indian cricket team not only showcased their prowess by defeating Pakistan in the Men's T20 Asia Cup 2025, but they also made a significant off-field statement by declining to accept the trophy and medals from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who also leads the Pakistan Cricket Board. This was highlighted by the national convener of the IT cell of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Amit Malviya, on X.
“India refused to accept the Asia Cup and medals as Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the head of the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Interior Minister of Pakistan, insisted on presenting them. We not only dominated Pakistan on the field but also put Naqvi in his place as a chief propagandist for the terror state that is Pakistan. This is New India,” he stated.
This remark followed India's exhilarating five-wicket victory at the Dubai International Stadium, where Pakistan initially appeared strong, racing to 113/1 in just 12.4 overs. However, India's bowlers, spearheaded by spinner Kuldeep Yadav, triggered a stunning collapse, bowling Pakistan out for 146 in 19.1 overs.
In pursuit of the 147-run target, India faced early setbacks, but Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 and Shivam Dube’s late flurry of sixes steadied the innings, allowing India to reach the target with just two balls remaining. This victory marked India's ninth title in the Asia Cup and highlighted their unbeaten journey throughout the tournament.
Malviya characterized India's refusal to accept the trophy as a powerful statement against Pakistan during this high-stakes cricketing event. His tweet ignited extensive discussions on social media, where supporters lauded both India's superior performance on the field and the symbolic gesture made off it.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah referenced India's celebrated victory in Operation Sindoor and subsequent military confrontations when celebrating the Indian team's impressive triumphs over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025.