Yes, you read that right — India finally got to hold a trophy more than two weeks after clinching the Asia Cup 2025 title. Ironically, it wasn’t even the Asia Cup trophy that they received. Instead, it came in the form of a symbolic presentation from the BCCI following their clean sweep over the West Indies in a home Test series.
This time, the cricket board made sure that the entire world saw it.
A Delayed Celebration That Spoke Volumes
When BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla handed over a glittering trophy to India’s young captain Shubman Gill on Tuesday, October 14, it wasn’t just a regular post-match ceremony. It was a statement — a symbolic correction to an episode that had left fans and players equally stunned.
India had dominated every game in the Asia Cup 2025, finishing as undefeated champions and securing their record ninth title in the tournament’s history. Yet, when the final whistle blew and celebrations were expected to erupt, the trophy was nowhere to be seen.
Players were left to perform a mock celebration, pretending to lift an “imaginary trophy” — a moment that quickly went viral but also sparked outrage among fans.
BCCI Makes a Point
Determined not to let such an embarrassment repeat itself, the BCCI turned the series victory over the West Indies into an occasion to right that wrong. The Board released a 108-second video on their official social media channels, showing Gill proudly receiving the trophy from Rajeev Shukla while teammates cheered in the background.
The message was clear: India may have missed holding one trophy, but they will never be denied their moment of pride.
Why Didn’t India Get the Asia Cup Trophy?
Behind the glitz of the game lay a politically charged episode that overshadowed the entire Asia Cup.
The tournament, jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, was marred by tensions between India and Pakistan. What should have been a celebration of Asian cricket turned into a display of diplomatic friction.
Throughout the competition, Indian and Pakistani players avoided shaking hands, with several on-field gestures interpreted as political taunts. The atmosphere was thick with hostility.
Things reached a boiling point after the final. According to sources close to the teams, the ACC (Asian Cricket Council) President and PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) Chief Mohsin Naqvi — who also holds a political position in the Pakistani government — made politically charged remarks on social media. As a mark of protest, the Indian team reportedly refused to accept the trophy from him.
Instead of diffusing the tension, Naqvi escalated it further by walking away with the trophy, leaving Indian players and officials stunned.
BCCI’s Strong Response
The BCCI wasted no time in responding. Officials condemned Naqvi’s behavior, calling it “unprofessional and politically motivated.” The Board also confirmed that it would raise the matter at the next ICC meeting, demanding action against Naqvi.
Insiders suggest that India may push for Naqvi’s censure or removal as ICC Director — a strong stance that underlines how seriously the BCCI has taken this matter.
While fans were frustrated by the lack of an Asia Cup trophy celebration, many applauded the BCCI for standing firm on principles. For them, it wasn’t just about a trophy; it was about respect for the game and for the players who earned it.
India’s Winning Ways Continue — 2-0 Test Sweep Against West Indies
Amid the off-field drama, the Indian team continued to do what they do best — win cricket matches convincingly.
India completed a 2-0 series whitewash against the West Indies after cruising to a seven-wicket victory in the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
Resuming Day 5 at 63/1, India needed just 58 runs to seal the game. KL Rahul anchored the chase with a composed 58 not out, while Sai Sudharsan added a crucial 39. The target was achieved with ease — 124/3 in 35.2 overs.
For fans, this was not just a Test win but a symbolic rebound after the Asia Cup debacle. The sight of players finally lifting a trophy felt poetic — justice served, in a Stellar Performances: Jaiswal, Gill, and Kuldeep Shine Bright
India’s dominance in the series came courtesy of several outstanding performances. In the first innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal smashed a brilliant 175, setting the tone for a massive total of 518/5 declared. Skipper Shubman Gill, showing maturity beyond his years, remained unbeaten on 129 — a captain’s innings that drew wide praise.
In reply, the West Indies were bundled out for 248, and despite showing grit in the follow-on — thanks to centuries from Shai Hope (123) and John Campbell (115) — they couldn’t stop India’s momentum.
Kuldeep Yadav was the hero with the ball, taking eight wickets in the match and deservedly earning the Player of the Match award.
With this, India extended their unbeaten streak against the West Indies to 27 Tests, an incredible record that underscores their supremacy in the format.
Shubman Gill’s First Series Win as Captain
The victory also marked a personal milestone for Shubman Gill — his first series win as India’s Test captain.
Gill’s leadership was calm, confident, and tactically astute. He showed maturity in field placements, bowling changes, and most importantly, in how he handled young players under pressure.
After receiving the trophy, Gill thanked the BCCI and the fans, saying:
“This moment means a lot to us. Every player worked hard not just for this series but throughout the season. We play for the country, and this trophy belongs to every fan who stood by us.”
His words perfectly captured the team’s spirit — resilient, humble, and united.
A Lesson in Sportsmanship and Symbolism
While India’s on-field performance continues to set benchmarks, the Asia Cup trophy controversy served as a reminder of how easily sports can become entangled in politics.
The episode highlighted the need for cricketing bodies to maintain neutrality and focus on the spirit of the game.
By orchestrating a symbolic trophy presentation, the BCCI not only gave closure to its players but also sent a powerful message — that Indian cricket’s pride cannot be undermined by politics.
Fans React: “Finally, Justice!”
Social media was flooded with reactions once the trophy presentation video surfaced. Fans hailed the BCCI’s move as a fitting response to the Asia Cup episode.
Some comments read:
- “Finally, justice for Team India!”
- “Trophy or not, we are proud of our boys!”
- “Gill lifting the trophy felt like redemption.”
The moment quickly went viral, with millions viewing the clip within hours of posting.
What’s Next for Team India?
After a dominant home season, India now turns its focus to the upcoming Australia tour. Senior stars like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to rejoin the squad.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja will also play in domestic Ranji Trophy matches to maintain form — a move encouraged by team mentor Gautam Gambhir, who has been pushing for more domestic participation among top players.
The team’s bench strength looks stronger than ever, and with Shubman Gill growing into his leadership role, Indian cricket seems to be in steady hands.
In Conclusion: From Controversy to Celebration
The events of the past few weeks have shown both the fragility and resilience of modern cricket. A controversy that began with a missing trophy ended with a powerful show of unity and pride.
India’s message was simple — trophies may come and go, but integrity and sportsmanship remain non-negotiable.
As the team posed for photos with their newly presented trophy, smiles all around, one thing was clear:
This wasn’t just about winning matches — it was about reclaiming dignity.
Key Takeaways
- India finally received a trophy weeks after winning the Asia Cup 2025.
- The Asia Cup trophy was not presented due to political tensions involving ACC and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi.
- BCCI responded strongly, vowing to raise the issue at the ICC meeting.
- India defeated West Indies 2-0, marking Gill’s first series win as captain.
- Kuldeep Yadav, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and KL Rahul were standout performers.
- The symbolic trophy presentation became a statement of pride and resilience.
