Watch: After Asia Cup win, Tilak Varma gifts signed cap to Andhra Pradesh minister

Tilak Varma, India’s standout performer in the Asia Cup 2025 final, celebrated the triumph with a special gesture off the field. The left-handed batter gifted an autographed cap to Lokesh Nara, Andhra Pradesh cabinet minister, after playing a decisive role in India’s win over Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday, September 28.

Lokesh shared a video on Instagram in which Tilak signed the cap with his name. The minister captioned the post: “This made my day. Excited to get it straight from you when you’re back in India, champ!”

The 22-year-old’s half-century was crucial in India’s tense chase. After the top order, including skipper Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill, and Abhishek Sharma, fell cheaply, Tilak steadied the innings. He stitched together a vital 50-run partnership with Sanju Samson, before carrying on with support from Shivam Dube. Later, Rinku Singh struck the winning runs, but Tilak’s composure under pressure stood out as the defining factor in India’s successful chase.

India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup final: Highlights

The win capped off a flawless campaign for India, who went undefeated throughout the tournament despite heightened political tensions surrounding the fixtures against Pakistan. While off-field controversies dominated headlines, Tilak’s batting ensured the cricketing spotlight remained intact in the final.

Tilak’s performance also became a source of pride for Andhra Pradesh. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu took to social media to applaud the youngster’s heroics. Writing on X, he said: “What a star! Our Telugu boy, Tilak Varma, absolutely owned the pitch with a match-winning innings to take India to victory! His composure and brilliance under pressure are inspiring. This is the fire Telugu boys are made of. Well done, Tilak, we’re proud of you!”