/startuppedia/media/media_files/2025/09/29/copy-of-web-2025-09-29-16-09-24.png)
Suryakumar Yadav donates Asia Cup match fees
India’s five-wicket victory over Pakistan secured the Asia Cup 2025 title, yet the post-match mood was far from routine.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav drew attention with both his decision to donate his match fees and his sharp criticism of the Asian Cricket Council.
Indian Captain donates Asia Cup match fees
Following the win, Indian Captain Suryakumar Yadav posted on social media:
“I have decided to donate my match fees from this tournament to support our Armed Forces and the families of the victims who suffered from the Pahalgam terror attack. You always remain in my thoughts.”
He played seven matches in the tournament, making his donation worth nearly ₹28 lakh. Yadav said the contribution was meant to honour the armed forces and provide support to affected families.
His gesture was widely praised on social media, with many calling it an example of leadership beyond the game.
India’s trophyless win in Asia Cup 2025
India chased down Pakistan’s target with two balls to spare, but celebrations were overshadowed by the post-match ceremony.
The team refused to accept the trophy from ACC President Mohsin Naqvi, who is also Pakistan’s Interior Minister. Only individual awards were presented, leaving the champions without the Asia Cup silverware.
Suryakumar Yadav criticised the decision, saying,
“I think this is one thing which I’ve never seen … that a champion team is denied a trophy, and that too a hard-earned one.”
He added that for him, the real trophies were his teammates and support staff. The incident sparked debate among fans, many accusing the ACC of politicising the game. The council has not yet issued an official statement.
India may have secured the Asia Cup on the field, but the fallout from the presentation overshadowed the triumph.
Yadav’s donation and his sharp remarks against the ACC ensured the final will be remembered for more than cricket, highlighting both sporting grit and a captain’s stand on principle.
Also Read: Lab-grown Gold: US startup Marathon Fusion claims it can turn Mercury into Gold using nuclear fusion