India clinched their ninth Asia Cup title with a thrilling five-wicket victory over Pakistan in Dubai, powered by Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 off 53 balls. But celebrations were overshadowed by controversy as the Indian team refused to accept the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman and Pakistan minister Mohsin Naqvi.

Chasing 147, India were in early trouble at 10-2, with skipper Suryakumar Yadav and star batter Abhishek Sharma dismissed cheaply. Varma, however, steadied the innings, forging key partnerships with Sanju Samson (24) and Shivam Dube, before Rinku Singh struck the winning runs with one ball faced.

Earlier, Pakistan started strongly with an 84-run opening stand between Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46). But a middle-order collapse saw them lose eight wickets for just 33 runs, finishing at 146 all out in 19.1 overs. Kuldeep Yadav starred with the ball, taking 4-30, and ended the tournament as the leading wicket-taker with 17 scalps.

Despite India’s dominant run through the tournament, the post-match ceremony turned tense. Reports confirmed the team declined to receive medals or the trophy from Naqvi. Instead, Suryakumar and his teammates celebrated with a mock trophy, highlighting strained political undercurrents in the Indo-Pak rivalry.

Varma was named Player of the Final for his composed knock, while Abhishek Sharma finished as the tournament’s top run-getter with 314 runs.

India’s win not only reinforced their dominance in the Asia Cup but also showcased the rise of a new generation of match-winners. Yet, the political flashpoint ensured the 2025 final will be remembered as much for off-field drama as on-field brilliance.