• Source:JND
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IND vs PAK Trophy Row: Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has made his disagreements clear with Team India's stand of not receiving the trophy from ACC (Asian Cricket Council) chief Mohsin Naqvi, stating that sports should be kept away from all this, as it should be celebrated for what it is.

The Suryakumar Yadav-led Team India secured a thrilling win over Pakistan; however, they were devoid of a trophy. Even after three days of the Asia Cup final, the winning team has not received its medals and the trophy.

It is worth noting that this was the politically charged edition of the Asia Cup with tensions between India and Pakistan. Notably, it was the aftermath of the tragic Pahalgam terror attacks orchestrated by Pakistan-backed terrorists that claimed 26 Indian lives. India played Pakistan thrice in the tournament, but the Indian players did not shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts.

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The match in the Super Four stage saw players like Haris Rauf going over the top, making provocative gestures towards the fans in the stadium. Notably, Rauf and Shaheen Afridi also used profanity against Indian batters.

“Team India sort of were not 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," De Villiers said while speaking on his YouTube channel.

“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 is what I hate to see," De Villiers said.

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“Let us focus on what is most important (the cricket itself). India are looking really, really strong. Building up to that big T20 World Cup. Remember, it isn’t too far away. And they look like they have got a lot of talent and they play the big moments well," De Villiers added.

As per the latest update, Naqvi has stated that Suryakumar and his side are welcome to receive their trophies from the ACC's office in Dubai.