India's refusal to be presented the Asia Cup 2025 trophy from the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has created a stir among the cricket fraternity and fans.
While the Indian fans and experts have shown support to the team for their stance against Pakistan, some of the ex-cricketers have expressed their disappointment for bringing the geopolitical tensions on the field.
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Among the critics is AB de Villiers, who called out India for their move not collect the Asia Cup trophy from Naqvi, terming it a political decision.
Here's what he had to say.
AB de Villiers calls out India for not accepting the Asia Cup trophy from PCB Chairman
Speaking on his YouTube channel (AB de Villiers 360), the former South Africa and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) legend felt that sports should unite and be celebrated. According to him, such events do not reflect well on the sport.
As things stand, India are yet to receive their winning medals and the trophy from the ACC and Naqvi, who has asked the Indian skipper to collect them in person from him.
India also refused handshakes with Pakistan throughout the three meetings in the Asia Cup and continues to remain firm on its stance with the India-Pakistan Women's World Cup clash coming up.
"Team India sort of weren't happy with who was handing out the trophy. I don't feel that belongs in sport. Politics should stay aside. Sport is one thing, and it should be celebrated for what it is," said de Villiers.
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"Quite sad to see that, but hopefully they will sort things out in the future. It does put the sport, the players, the sportsmen, the cricketers in a very tough position, and that's what I hate to see. It was quite awkward there at the end," he added.
Days after the end of the Asia Cup, India is already back in action with their home Test season underway, as they host the West Indies for two Tests.
On the other hand, after losing to India in the final, Pakistan will host South Africa for two Tests, three T20Is, and three ODIs from October 12.