The Asia Cup final between Pakistan and India, expected to be a night of cricketing celebration, spiraled into controversy marked by politics, accusations, and a shocking trophy dispute.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi strongly criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for linking war with cricket after India’s win, accusing him of “desperation” and undermining the spirit of the game. Naqvi reminded that history records India’s humiliating defeats against Pakistan, a fact no match can erase.
The uproar followed Modi’s post on X (formerly Twitter), where he congratulated the Indian team but controversially tied the victory to “#OperationSindoor,” a military reference that sparked outrage on both sides of the border.
The controversy escalated as the BCCI formally informed the ACC of India’s refusal to accept the trophy. In an unprecedented move, the trophy was pulled from the stage, leaving the ceremony incomplete and players without medals.
