India’s Asia Cup 2025 triumph may have brought immense joy to millions of fans, but captain Suryakumar Yadav ensured the victory carried a deeper meaning. After guiding the Men in Blue to a five-wicket win over Pakistan in Dubai to secure their record-extending ninth continental title, Surya announced he would donate his entire match fees from the tournament to the Indian Army.
“I personally want to give all my match fees from this tournament to the Indian Army,” he said at the post-match press conference, a gesture that resonated far beyond the cricket field.
Yet, what should have been a night of unbridled celebrations turned into one of controversy. In unprecedented scenes at the presentation ceremony, India declined to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Pakistan’s interior minister and Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi. Despite the champions’ refusal, Naqvi remained on stage, and the trophy was never handed over — a first in cricket history.
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Reports suggest India was ready to accept the trophy from Emirates Cricket Board vice-chairman Khalid Al Zarooni, who was present at the ceremony, but Naqvi did not allow the handover. As a result, the victorious squad returned to the dressing room without the silverware.
Suryakumar Yadav donates his entire Asia Cup 2025 match fees to the Indian Army
Supporters: Patriotic 🇮🇳
Critics: Politicizing cricket ❌
Another controversy after trophy snub & no-handshake?#SuryakumarYadav #AsiaCupFinal #IndianArmy #INDvsPAK #vokoriginals pic.twitter.com/Q1e8v8CiTU— Vok (@vok_originals) September 28, 2025
Expressing his disappointment, Suryakumar said, “This is one thing which I have never seen since I started playing and following cricket — that a champion team is denied a trophy. And that too a hard-earned one. We were here since the 4th, played tough matches, and I feel we truly deserved it.”
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In a heartfelt remark, the skipper added that his true trophies were his teammates and support staff. “All the 14 guys and the support staff — those are the real trophies. Those are the real moments I am taking back as memories that will stay forever.”
Soon after the historic win, the BCCI announced a reward of ₹21 crore for the players and support staff, ensuring the squad’s efforts were duly recognized even in the absence of the physical trophy.
