India clinched a record-extending ninth Asia Cup title with a thrilling five-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in the 2025 final at Dubai International Stadium, earning widespread praise from current and former players for their courage, belief, and national pride. The match, marked by high stakes and intense pressure, saw young Tilak Varma anchor the chase with an unbeaten 69, supported by Kuldeep Yadav’s match-defining 4-30 spell and Rinku Singh’s decisive boundary, sealing the win with two balls to spare.
Former India batter VVS Laxman lauded the team’s spirit, posting on X, “This triumph is not just about lifting the trophy; it’s about courage, belief, and playing for the flag. Special congratulations to Tilak, who showed maturity beyond years.”
Former head coach Ravi Shastri echoed this, praising the youngsters’ composure: “A special knock by Tilak Varma—calm, composed, and clutch when it mattered most. That took nerves of steel!”
The victory sparked reactions from cricketing legends. Yuvraj Singh, a former World Cup winner, described the match as a “nerve-wracking” clash befitting the India-Pakistan rivalry, singling out Tilak’s “outstanding knock” and Kuldeep’s brilliance. He also celebrated his protégé Abhishek Sharma’s Player of the Tournament award for consistent performances.
ICC chairman Jay Shah hailed India’s unbeaten campaign, noting their “excellence, consistency, and character on the biggest stage.” Former spinner Harbhajan Singh dubbed Tilak “Bharat ka Vijay Tilak”, while pacer Mohammed Shami praised the team’s “unbreakable spirit”.
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The match, however, was not without controversy, as India’s refusal to attend the trophy presentation ceremony due to off-field tensions drew attention. Despite this, the focus remained on India’s dominance.
Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan compared Tilak’s composed innings to Virat Kohli’s, calling it “the best of his career” and highlighting India’s widening gap over Pakistan in T20 cricket. The victory, celebrated with fireworks and Bollywood tunes, underscored India’s prowess and national pride.
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