Asia Cup 2025: 'Country’s leader bats on front foot' - Suryakumar Yadav appreciates PM Narendra Modi's support after title win

Published - 29 Sept 2025, 17:36 IST | Updated - 29 Sept 2025, 17:52 IST

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav admitted it was special to receive praise from the Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi after India defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final in Dubai on Sunday, September 28. The Prime Minister congratulated the team shortly after the victory, metaphorizing the Operation Sindoor — India’s military response to the recent terror attacks in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

Reacting to the message, Suryakumar said it felt as if the Prime Minister himself had taken the field. He also added that the team’s success was made even more satisfying by the celebrations back home.

“It feels good when the country’s leader himself bats on the front foot; it feels like he took the strike and scored runs. It was great to see, and when sir is standing in front, then definitely the players will play freely. The most important thing is that the whole country is celebrating. When we go back (to India), it will feel good, and we will get more inspiration and motivation to do well,” said Suryakumar as quoted by India Today.

India’s journey in the continental tournament was marked by heavy political undertones. The team faced their arch-rivals three times, with tensions rising during each fixture. In a strong statement of solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam attacks and support for the armed forces carrying out Operation Sindoor, the Men in Blue avoided the customary handshake with the Pakistan teammates. This move drew criticism from the opposition camp, shifting much of the spotlight outside the cricket field.

The controversy deepened after the final, when India refused to accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, who serves as both Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Chairman and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman. The symbolic snub added another layer to an already politically charged encounter. With the victory, India extended their dominance in Asian cricket and now turn their focus to upcoming international assignments, with full momentum on the field and encouragement.