Former Indian wicketkeeper and 1983 World Cup hero Syed Kirmani has condemned the political interference in the 2025 Asia Cup, expressing deep disappointment over the tournament’s conduct.
In an emotional statement, Kirmani remarked,
“I am ashamed as a cricketer. The spirit of the game has been hijacked. There was no gentlemanliness on the field—only rude, arrogant gestures. I’ve received messages from across the globe asking, ‘What politics is going on in the field?’”
The controversy intensified during the final between India and Pakistan on September 28, 2025, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
After India’s five-wicket victory, the Indian team refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and Pakistan’s interior minister. This unprecedented move led to a delayed and shortened award ceremony, with the team trophy notably absent from the podium.
Kirmani lamented the loss of camaraderie that once defined Indo-Pak cricket relations, stating:
“In our time, Pakistani players visiting India and vice versa was about love, hospitality, and friendship. Now, the total scenario is absolutely depressing.” ([India Today][3])
He further emphasized,
“Politics should not enter sports. Whatever has transpired away from the sporting field, leave it there itself.” ([NDTV Sports][4])
Global cricket figures have echoed Kirmani’s sentiments. South African legend AB de Villiers criticized the post-match chaos, urging that politics should stay aside and sport must be celebrated. ([The Times of India][5])
The 2025 Asia Cup, intended to showcase cricketing excellence, was instead marred by political tensions and unsporting behavior, overshadowing the achievements on the field.