Shahid Afridi IPL Umpiring Allegation

The Shahid Afridi IPL umpiring allegation on Ruchira Palliyaguruge emerged during the Asia Cup 2025, sparking debate regarding umpiring neutrality in high-stakes matches. Following Fakhar Zaman’s controversial dismissal against India, Afridi sarcastically suggested that Palliyaguruge’s decision-making might be influenced by a desire to be selected for IPL umpiring, hinting at an underlying bias and calling the integrity of officiating into question. So Let’s take a look at Shahid Afridi IPL umpiring allegation.

Suggested Topic: India Test squad update for West Indies Tour 2025

Spotlight on the Controversial Asia Cup Umpiring Incident

In the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match in Dubai, Fakhar Zaman’s early dismissal became the center of a heated exchange. The incident unfolded when Zaman edged Hardik Pandya’s delivery to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson, leading the on-field umpire to declare him out. A referral to third umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge was made, and after reviewing the footage, he upheld the decision, judging the catch as clean. Visible discontent from Zaman and subsequent remarks by Afridi—implying umpiring bias tied to IPL aspirations—turned a routine call into a regional talking point.

Why Did Shahid Afridi Make the IPL Allegation?

Shahid Afridi’s comment, “Usse IPL mein bhi toh umpiring karni hai,” was delivered on Pakistani television, specifically on Samaa TV, after the match. Afridi insinuated that Palliyaguruge’s officiating was possibly driven by personal interests related to umpiring opportunities in the lucrative Indian Premier League. This remark was prompted by perceptions in Pakistan that certain umpires favor Indian teams due to the promise of IPL assignments, a theory frequently floated in subcontinental cricket circles. Afridi was echoing wider sentiments of distrust concerning officiating when India is involved, using sarcasm to highlight what he and others viewed as questionable neutrality in a high-stakes contest.

Did Afridi’s IPL umpiring accusation reveal deeper issues in cricket officiating, or was it merely an attempt to stir controversy following a tough loss?

DOWNLOAD: STUMPSANDBAILS FANTASY CRICKET APP

DOWNLOAD: DRAGOZ SPORTS FANTASY CRICKET APP