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From DRS to run-outs: India vs Pakistan wicket controversy that has etched its name in history books

Prachi Rajan

Ind vs Pak wicket controversies over the years (X.com/@AtishayyJain96 & @BsamaU7)Ind vs Pak wicket controversies over the years (X.com/@AtishayyJain96 & @BsamaU7)

The 'El Clásico' of cricket, India vs Pakistan, is a clash marred by controversies and allegations, thrown from both sides. Affected by the geopolitical conflicts and terrorist activities, this fiery rivalry has produced some great games for the spectators to enjoy. 

On the other hand, the emotional connection to the result of the game, also brings some debatable claims on umpire decisions. The aftermath of the controversies involves claims from both sides, debating the legality of the dismissal. 

One such incident took place in the latest Asia Cup 2025 super 4 match, when Fakhar Zaman's dismissal caught everyone's eye, but for the wrong reason. 

Having said that, below, we take a look at some instances when a wicket in the India vs Pakistan clash caused controversy.

List of India vs Pakistan Wicket Controversies that caused a stir in the World of Cricket

1. Fakhar Zaman's controversial caught behind (Asia Cup 2025 Super 4s)

The highly intense match played between the two neighbouring nations on 21st September 2025 saw a controversial moment when Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman was given out by the umpire in a debatable decision. The controversy arose when Sanju Samson appeared to catch Fakhar, but Pakistan's former cricketers and captain, Salman, suggested the ball might have bounced before reaching Samson's gloves. 

After prolonged deliberation from multiple angles, TV umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge upheld the decision giving him out, leaving him stunned as he slowly made his way back to the pavilion. This dismissal sparked debate among fans and former players. 

2. Sachin Tendulkar's collision with Shoaib Akhtar (February 1999)

The India vs Pakistan controversy goes back in time. The Kolkata Test in 1999 remains etched in the memories of cricket fans from both countries. This is due to the controversial run-out of the God of Indian cricket, Sachin Tendulkar, involving Shoaib Akhtar. 

While chasing a target set by Pakistan, Tendulkar, playing on 7 runs, had played a shot off Wasim Akram. Completing two runs, he attempted a third. While taking this run, Tendulkar collided with Shoaib Akhtar, who was near the stumps to collect the throw. As a result, Tendulkar ended up outside the crease, just at the moment of collision. 

 The decision was referred to the TV umpire, KT Francis. However, after careful scrutiny, Francus gave Tendulkar out. This decision was marked by a lot of debate. This decision, despite being completely legal in the eyes of the law, broiled tensions. Moreover, the crowd at the Eden Gardens erupted in anger. As a result, security forces had to intervene and eventually, Sachin himself had to pacify the fans for the match to begin again. 

3. Ex-Pakistan cricketer accuses India of DRS Manipulation

Amid Team India's stupendous show in the Cricket World Cup in the year 2023, former Pakistan cricketer Hasan Raza had accused the BCCI and Team India of DRS manipulation. Hasan, in a chat on a Pakistani TV channel, claimed that India's success in the tournament has been a result of the manipulation of the DRS decisions. 

Raza felt that India used the home advantage and influenced some of the DRS decisions, citing Rassie van der Dussen's dismissal. Moreover, he stated that this was a case in the match against Pakistan, too.   

4. Maninder Singh's revelation on biased umpiring (1982-83)

In an interview with ESPNCricinfo in 2019, former India spinner Maninder Singh uncovered an incident of biased umpiring in an India vs Pakistan match during the 1982-83 Test series. Veteran spinner revealed in his debut series, he was denied wickets due to unfair umpire decisions. 

The umpire, none other than former Pakistani umpire Shakoor Rana, according to Singh, the umpire even said, “Aaja, aaja, ethe sirf bowled kar, ethe ohiyeo wicket milegi.” (Come back, you need to get batsmen bowled, that’s the only way you’ll get a dismissal here.)