It's been a month since India outplayed Pakistan to secure the Asia Cup T20 title, yet the trophy has surprisingly not reached the Indian team. There has been no trophy presentation or closing ceremony. This victory feels somewhat unfinished. Now, as the BCCI has confirmed participation in the Rising Stars Asia Cup, a new chapter begins. The intense rivalry is poised to return, but questions still linger over the Asian Cricket Council's (ACC) operations.
The Asia Cup never reached its climactic 'trophy moment'. It was a campaign that should have culminated in a clear and well-deserved victory for India, but instead, it became entangled in statements, counter-statements, and diplomatic intricacies.
Nevertheless, the BCCI is undeterred, gearing up to send another team to another tournament, this time including Pakistan. This decision seems less about cricket per se and more a testament to India's patience, control, and confidence.
Read More - This November, India and Pakistan Face Off Twice! Clash in Doha, and Another Possible Final Showdown
Recently, under the captaincy of Suryakumar Yadav, India faced Pakistan thrice during the Asia Cup—in the group stage, super-four, and final. While matches on the field were intense, the political atmosphere and emotional fervor overshadowed them.
The most talked-about moment was when ACC Chairman and PCB President Mohsin Naqvi refused to hand over the trophy to India. This move not only disrupted the atmosphere but also raised questions on respect, transparency, and intention.
The ICC had to intervene. Penalties were imposed on both teams' players, warnings were issued, and demerit points were given. Yet, these reprimands didn't resolve the main issue. The trophy remains with the ACC—neither returned nor handed over.
Nevertheless, the narrative progresses, with India and Pakistan once again in the same group.
The ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup has been introduced as a development tournament for 'A teams', yet it seems a carefully planned strategy to bring the two nations face-to-face again. The clash is slated for November 16 in Doha, and if events unfold as anticipated, another final showdown is possible. The question now arises—if India won again, would the trophy truly be theirs this time?
