Overview:
During the Asia Cup, political problems between India and Pakistan took the centerstage, overshadowing the cricket.
Opinions are divided after Team India declined to accept the Asia Cup 2025 trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, ACC chief and Pakistan’s Interior Minister. Angered by India’s stance, Naqvi took the trophy away. He carried the silverware and medals to his hotel room in Dubai. South African cricket legend AB de Villiers publicly criticised Team India for mixing politics with sports.
In a YouTube video, De Villiers expressed his disappointment regarding the events that followed after India’s five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final.
“Team India seemed unhappy with who was presenting the trophy. I don’t think politics should have a place in sport. Sport is something to be celebrated for what it is. It’s disappointing to see, but I hope they resolve it in the future. It puts the sport, players, and cricketers in a difficult position, and that’s something I really don’t like. It was a rather awkward moment in the end,” De Villiers said.
During the Asia Cup, political problems between India and Pakistan took the centerstage, overshadowing the cricket. Even though India won the title without losing a game, the refusal to shake handshakes became the main topic about on social media.
De Villiers, however, is highly impressed with India’s T20 squad, particularly with the upcoming World Cup in mind.
“Let’s concentrate on what truly matters – the cricket. India look incredibly strong, especially as they prepare for the T20 World Cup, which isn’t far away. They have a lot of talent and know how to perform in crucial moments.”