'Things go their way': Khushdil Shah says India favoured by umpires in Pak-India matches

Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah has sparked discussion after making remarks suggesting that India benefits from favourable conditions and decisions during high-profile India-Pakistan cricket matches.

Speaking on a podcast alongside teammate Abbas Afridi, Khushdil reflected on the pressure and intensity that comes with facing archrivals India on the international stage.

He acknowledged that while these matches always carry significant emotional weight, they also bring added pressure that players must manage.

However, Khushdil also suggested that certain external factors tend to favour India during these encounters.

“Things tend to go in their favour during matches. Umpiring decisions go in their favour, as do some dressing-room decisions and even matches are held according to their wishes,” he said.

Despite these claims, he added that Pakistan’s victories against India feel particularly rewarding because of the perceived challenges involved.

“Despite all that, when Pakistan wins, it’s especially enjoyable,” he remarked.

India and Pakistan cricket matches have long been among the most watched sporting events globally, often accompanied by intense scrutiny and emotional responses from fans on both sides.

Pakistan’s last win over India came during the Super Four stage of the 2022 Asia Cup in Dubai. Since then, India have won six consecutive T20 internationals against Pakistan.

In One Day Internationals, Pakistan’s most recent victory against India remains the 2017 Champions Trophy final, with India winning the majority of encounters since.