In India, cricket is more than just a game. Beating Pakistan in a final is a very big deal for all Indians.
India erupted in a unified wave of euphoria on Sunday as the men's cricket team clinched a nail-biting five-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan to secure the 2025 Asia Cup title. The high-stakes final in Dubai, a crazy roller coaster of tension and momentum swings, led to the country's record-extending ninth Asia Cup title, from the hills of Jammu to the beachside streets of Mumbai.
As soon as the winning runs were scored, the entire country let out a collective cheer. Images of an unruly gathering flooded in from all over the nation. In support of their team, crowds flocked to the streets of Delhi and Patna, waving the flag and chanting slogans. While the night sky in Kanpur and Poonch was illuminated by firecrackers, the rhythmic beat of dhols served as the background music for dancing fans in Mumbai.
The final was a classic contest that tested the nerve of every player and fan. Played under immense pressure, the game swung back and forth, keeping supporters on the edge of their seats until the very end. Just when the game seemed to be in the balance, India's lower middle order displayed remarkable composure and aggression.
With a well-paced half-century and crucial relationships with Shivam Dube and Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma guided the team to an unforgettable finish. India's dominance in continental cricket was cemented as the team, led by Suryakumar Yadav, won their second T20I Asia Cup.
The national sentiment was perfectly captured by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took to social media to congratulate the team with a powerful and symbolic message. “#OperationSindoor on the games field. Outcome is the same – India wins! Congrats to our cricketers,” he posted.
In a country where cricket is akin to religion, a victory over Pakistan in a tournament final is always significant. However, this win felt particularly resonant. But this victory struck a very deep chord. From Jammu and Kashmir to the center of the city, the "all-corner" celebrations showed how the sport cuts over national boundaries and cultural divides.
Also Read: ‘Operation Sindoor on the Games Field’: PM Modi Hails India’s Triumph Over Pakistan at Asia Cup
