In the Asia Cup 2025 final, India defeated Pakistan to claim victory, yet the buzz centered more around Suryakumar Yadav's witty exchange with a Pakistani reporter. During the press conference, the reporter questioned the captain's conduct and political implications, only for Suryakumar's lighthearted retort to change the atmosphere. This Indian captain's reaction not only amused the journalists present but went viral globally.
The tension traces back to when Suryakumar Yadav and the Indian team refused post-match handshakes with Pakistani players, spotlighting the heightened rivalry and anticipation in the tournament.
Following the final, the Indian team declined to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chief. Celebrations ensued sans the trophy, leaving Pakistan's captain Salman Agha surprised at the turn of events.
During the press conference, a Pakistani reporter asked Suryakumar Yadav if he believed he was the first captain to introduce politics into cricket. The reporter inquiringly noted, 'You've been champions today, displaying superb play. But attention has been drawn to your conduct throughout the tournament—avoiding handshakes, skipping trophy photo sessions, followed by a politically charged conference. Do you consider yourself the first captain in cricket's history to bring politics into the game?'
Before responding, media advisors advised Suryakumar to refrain, but the Indian captain humorously remarked that the reporter seemed upset, prompting laughter across the media room.
Suryakumar said, 'Should I answer or not? You seem upset. I couldn't even grasp your question completely—you asked four questions in a breath.'
India-Pakistan matches have consistently been more than just cricket, and Suryakumar Yadav's confident responses added a memorable moment for audiences and the media. The team not only celebrated victory but maintained their dignity and poise.
