In a bizarre turn of events after India’s convincing victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup final, the Indian team was unable to celebrate with the trophy. Despite having won the title — India’s ninth Asia Cup crown — confusion reigned as Mohsin Naqvi, the ACC chief, left the stadium with the trophy, leaving India without any silverware in hand.

The post-match presentation was delayed by about an hour. Once it finally began, Naqvi announced that “India will not be collecting their trophy tonight,” before he exited with the trophy in tow while the Indian team remained on the dais.  Some reports suggest India refused to formally accept the trophy from Naqvi; others allege the Pakistan side caused or exploited the delay.

Meanwhile, as Naqvi walked away with the prize, the Indian players, though jubilant about the win, were left standing empty-handed. The dramatic climax added a bitter aftertaste to an Asia Cup already marred by off-field tensions between the two teams.