Pakistan A clinched the Asia Cup Rising Stars title for a record third time on Sunday.
Pakistan A clinched the Asia Cup Rising Stars title for a record third time on Sunday (November 23), edging past Bangladesh A in a thrilling final at Doha’s West End Park International Cricket Stadium.
Irfan Khan Niazi’s side managed to take the final into a Super Over despite posting a modest 125/10 on the board in 20 overs.
In reply, Bangladesh A fought back but fell short in the one-over eliminator, with Pakistan’s bowlers holding their nerve in the closing moments.
ACC chief and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi was a notable presence throughout the evening. Cameras repeatedly captured his animated reactions as the contest swung wildly. Once Pakistan A emerged victorious, he stepped onto the field to present the trophy to winning captain.
Naqvi's appearance rekindled memories of the controversial ending to the Asia Cup 2025 final in Dubai, where the ACC boss insisted on personally handing the trophy to India. The Men in Blue refused, leading to the ceremony being abruptly halted.
Furious with Team India’s stand, Naqvi took the silverware and medals in his custody. After BCCI’s protest, he said that if India want the trophy and medals, a member of their team can collect them from his ACC office in Dubai.