The build-up to Friday’s Asia Cup final had been rather bizarre, at least going by talk over the preceding two days.

First it was about how sorry everyone felt for Asghar Afghan’s Afghanistan exiting despite the passion and quality of their cricket.

Then, it was about how listless Pakistan had been right through, despite starting with an excellent chance of regaining the Cup.

Of course, excellent chance on paper, especially as India had rested nemesis Virat Kohli. But, then, tournaments aren’t won on pieces of paper.

The build-up did no justice to finalists India and Bangladesh. Just as well that the last-ball finish, which gave India a three-wicket win, ensured that the final alone would be hailed in the souks, malls and bazaars.

Victory comes through much skill, some luck and plenty of character. The type which a hobbling Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya’s replacement Ravindra Jadeja and plucky Bhuvneshwar Kumar, in particular, displayed at the Dubai International Stadium.

The pressure had obviously been more on India, but when you are a Big Brother, that goes with the territory.

Also, there are occasions when a modest target (223) can get tricky. There’s uncertainty over pacing the chase.

Bangladesh, however, gave it their all after making such a mess in the first session. Invited by Rohit Sharma to set a target, Bangladesh had been on course for at least 275. They fell way short.

For Bangladesh, the wait for a maiden Asia Cup win has got prolonged.

“Congratulations to India, but cricket has been the bigger winner. Bangladesh shouldn’t leave the UAE feeling disappointed. That they almost defended a low total says much about their spirit...

“Mashrafe Mortaza, I ought to point out, captained exceedingly well...

“On reflection, I feel India should have batted. But, then, I’m not being critical,” World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev told The Telegraph.

Kapil, who arrived on Thursday for TV and radio assignments, added: “The 50-over game needed a tournament such as this. Some were of the opinion that it had begun to drift. Now, that bit won’t be mentioned.”

Indeed, yes.

Looking at the larger picture, India’s victory has come at a time head coach Ravi Shastri needed it the most.

A beaming Rohit, for his part, said: “We ticked all the boxes in this Cup.”