• Varun Chakaravarthy opened up on the creative mind behind India’s trophy-free Asia Cup 2025 victory celebration.

  • Amid trophy presentation controversy, India’s unity shone as they celebrated their record ninth Asia Cup title.

Varun Chakaravarthy unveils the mastermind behind India’s trophy-less celebration after Asia Cup 2025 triumph
Varun Chakaravarthy unveils the mastermind behind India’s trophy-less celebration after Asia Cup 2025 triumph (Image source: X)

India etched another memorable chapter in their cricketing history by clinching the Asia Cup 2025 title after a thrilling win over Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 28. However, what followed post-match was even more extraordinary. The team chose to celebrate their historic triumph without the actual trophy or winning medals, marking a rare scene in global cricket.

Varun Chakaravarthy discloses who planned India’s unique Asia Cup 2025 celebration

According to Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, this iconic and impromptu celebration was not a result of any pre-planned act, but instead was the brainchild of left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. Speaking at the CEAT Awards on October 7, Chakaravarthy recounted how the team’s excitement soon turned to confusion when they realized the silverware would not be presented to them.

It was actually Arshdeep’s idea. We were waiting for the trophy, but we all know how that turned out,” Varun said, adding humorously, “I was standing there, hoping the cup would show up — we were all waiting. But the only cup next to me was a coffee cup“.

The Indian players gathered near the podium and captain Suryakumar Yadav symbolically lifted an imaginary trophy, recreating scenes reminiscent of Rohit Sharma‘s famous T20 World Cup celebration from 2024. This creative gesture not only showcased resilience but also demonstrated how the squad could turn an awkward situation into one filled with camaraderie and pride.

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma and Ritika Sajdeh’s adorable chemistry steals the limelight at CEAT Cricket Awards 2025

Team spirit triumphs over controversy

The root of this unprecedented scenario lay in the post-match protocol. The Men in Blue had reportedly requested that the trophy be handed to them by an official other than Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi, a suggestion that was eventually declined by the organizing authorities. When officials exited with the trophy unawarded, the Indian players refused to let disappointment dampen their jubilation.

Wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson echoed this spirit, stating, “It was a bit strange, celebrating without the trophy. But we have a very positive environment in our dressing room. Even if we don’t have anything, we celebrate like we have everything. That’s exactly what we did.

The social media response from Indian cricketers drove the message home. Several players took to their handles, posting images using trophy emojis in place of actual photos with the silverware. The subtle jibe at the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) officials resonated with fans who felt the team deserved the tangible symbol of their achievement. Despite the controversy, the Indian side’s innovative celebration quickly went viral, earning widespread praise for its uniqueness and unity.

Also READ: CEAT Cricket Rating Awards 2025: Full list of winners featuring Brian Lara, Rohit Sharma

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Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on , , and .