The India vs Pakistan cricket rivalry once again lived up to its reputation for drama and controversy, this time during the Group B encounter in Doha on Sunday.
Although India A are facing Pakistan A in the
Asia Cup Rising Stars, the intensity of the match has lived up to the billing, creating multiple moments of fierce altercations.
Indian batter Ashutosh Sharma found himself at the center of attention after a contentious leg-before-wicket decision that left both teams and fans debating the umpire's call.
The incident occurred in the 14th over when Pakistan's in-form spinner Saad Masood deceived Ashutosh with a sharp googly. The delivery struck Ashutosh on the pads, triggering a loud appeal from the Pakistani players. Umpire Mahmood Kharoti raised his finger almost instantly, sending the Indian camp into disbelief.
Replays later showed that the impact appeared to be outside the off-stump, backing Ashutosh's immediate reaction as he signalled to the umpire that the ball had pitched beyond the line. His batting partner, Nehal Wadhera, also looked stunned at the decision. Visibly frustrated, Ashutosh walked off after a six-ball duck, glancing angrily toward the match official as he headed back to the dugout. The dismissal proved costly for India, who collapsed from a commanding position of 91 for 2 to 136 all out.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi had earlier given India a flying start, smashing 45 off just 28 deliveries after scoring a record 144 against the UAE in their tournament opener. The teenager also had a minor exchange of words with Pakistan pacer Ubaid Khan, and after giving the Pakistan bowler a mouthful, Vaibhav went on to slam him for a boundary in the very next one.
Adding to the tension, the Indian team continued to follow the BCCI's "No Handshake" policy with Pakistani players, avoiding customary post-toss greetings. The stance, first observed during the Asia Cup in September, remains a symbolic protest linked to broader diplomatic sensitivities.
Despite that, the Pakistan Shaheens look on course to secure a rare victory against their neighbours. Chasing 137 runs, Pakistan are 93 for 1 at the end of 9 overs and looking good to secure two important points.
