The recent Asia Cup final between Pakistan and India was one of the most anticipated and exciting matches, yet it turned out to be both unexpected and disappointing, especially for Pakistani fans. Pakistan’s performance fell short of expectations, leaving many supporters disheartened. But beyond the game itself, what truly tainted the tournament was the unnecessary drama and attitudes displayed by the Indian side.
From the very start, the spirit of sportsmanship was overshadowed by pettiness. The refusal to shake hands, the politicising of their first victory against Pakistan, and finally the trophy ceremony fiasco — these incidents turned a sporting event into a political spectacle. India’s request not to receive the trophy from ACC Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, simply because he is Pakistani, was not only absurd but also deeply disrespectful.
Naqvi’s dignified yet firm response was entirely appropriate. Moreover, his decision to abstain from the ceremony and deny India the opportunity to politicise the moment sent a strong message against such childish attitudes. Regrettably, cricket, which was once regarded as a gentleman’s pastime, was reduced to a platform for political theatre.
As a cricket fan, I feel let down. The grounds should remain neutral spaces dedicated to sport, not extensions of political battlefields. Instead of showcasing talent, teamwork and the unifying power of cricket, the Asia Cup became mired in controversies that robbed it of joy and meaning.
Sports are meant to bridge divides, not deepen them. It is time for cricket authorities to ensure that tournaments are remembered for their performances, not the politics that overshadow them. The Asia Cup could have been a celebration of cricket, but it ended up a disappointment.
Saroj Rizwan Khan
Karachi
