Pakistan’s frustrations against India in the Asia Cup 2025 continue to boil over after yet another heavy defeat in the Super Four clash on Sunday. Former all-rounder Shahid Afridi was the latest to raise his voice, questioning the umpiring standards and suggesting bias in Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal.

Zaman, who was promoted to open, started brightly with three boundaries in just eight balls. However, his promising knock ended on 15 when he edged one behind to Sanju Samson. The on-field decision went upstairs, and after a long review, the third umpire adjudged it out. The replays showed the ball close to the turf before settling into Samson’s gloves, sparking debate.

Shahid Afridi, known for his sharp remarks, hinted at favouritism during a TV discussion. “Unhone IPL me bhi toh umpiring karni hai [He has to umpire in the IPL too],” Afridi quipped while analysing the loss on Samaa TV.

ALSO READ: Yograj Singh Urges Kapil Dev To Guide Youngsters and Shape India’s Cricket Future

Former Pakistan batter Mohammad Yousuf also shared Afridi’s concern, stating that the TV umpire didn’t review the catch from enough angles. “Fakhar had already hit three fours and was handling Bumrah confidently. His wicket changed the momentum for India,” Yousuf observed.

Pakistan skipper Salman Agha joined the debate, admitting the decision looked questionable. “It did seem like the ball bounced before reaching the keeper. I might be wrong, but Fakhar batting through the powerplay could’ve taken us to 190,” Salman said in the post-match press conference.

ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly Returns As CAB President, Sets Bold Plans For Eden Gardens

Despite the controversy, Pakistan managed 171/5 with Sahibzada Farhan’s composed 58 off 45 balls. But India’s young stars took the spotlight again. Abhishek Sharma’s blistering 74 off 39 balls and Shubman Gill’s fluent 47 off 28 sealed a comfortable six-wicket win in 18.5 overs, extending India’s dominance in the tournament.