Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has strongly criticized the umpiring during the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match against India, particularly over the controversial dismissal of Fakhar Zaman. Akhtar argued that the match could have swung in Pakistan’s favor if Fakhar had not been given out. Pakistan eventually lost the match by six wickets, marking their seventh consecutive defeat to India in international cricket. 

The incident took place on the third ball of the third over when Hardik Pandya bowled an off-cutter. Fakhar Zaman attempted a shot but appeared to edge the ball slightly, which was caught by Indian wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. Fakhar maintained that the ball had touched the ground before reaching the gloves and was visibly upset after being given out following a review.

Akhtar criticized the umpire for making a rushed decision and questioned the reliability of the two camera angles used for the review. He urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to utilize all 26 camera angles available in the stadium to ensure accurate decisions. Akhtar emphasized that in cases of doubt, the benefit should be given to the batsman.

Despite Fakhar’s early dismissal, Pakistan managed to post a target of 172 runs, aided by Sahibzada Farhan’s half-century. However, India’s openers Tilak Varma and Shubman Gill built a strong 105-run partnership, with Tilak Varma finishing the match efficiently, securing a six-wicket victory with seven balls to spare. Akhtar’s comments have sparked a debate over umpiring standards an