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All-rounder Khushdil Shah has made some controversial comments about the famous India-Pakistan rivalry. The India-Pakistan matches have always been full of drama, pressure, and emotions.
Shah accused the biased umpiring during India-Pakistan matches as he discussed the unique atmosphere surrounding the high-voltage games and multi-nation events.
Khushdil Shah sparks massive controversy with explosive India-Pakistan claim
Speaking during a podcast, Khushdil Shah said that the India-Pakistan clashes always bring extra pressure and emotions because of the history and rivalry between the two cricketing giants. The left-hander also claimed that several factors work in India's favor whenever the two teams meet.
The all-rounder claimed that many factors went in India's favour, including the umpiring decisions, leaving the Men in Green feeling disadvantaged, and that left everyone stunned. Yet, Khushdil admitted that defeating India remains one of the most satisfying achievements for Pakistani players because of the pressure, expectations, and emotions carried by this rivalry.
Khushdil Shah said on the podcast with ARY, “Matches against India carry a few extra emotions, & then the pressure eases a bit. When we were playing, we used to beat them as well. Another thing is that there are a lot of things that tend to go in their favor during matches. Umpiring decisions go in their favor, as do some dressing-room decisions, & even matches are held according to their wishes. Despite all that, when Pakistan wins, it’s especially enjoyable.”
Khushdil Shah on playing against India. 🗣
— Sheri. (@CallMeSheri1_) June 7, 2026
"Matches against India carry a few extra emotions & then the pressure eases a bit. When we were playing, we used to beat them as well. Things tend to go in their favor during matches. Umpiring decisions go in their favor, as do some… pic.twitter.com/suNHPDz1eC
India dominates Pakistan in global events
Well, the Man in Blue has dominated this India-Pakistan rivalry. Pakistan's last victory over India came during the Super Four stage of the 2022 Asia Cup in Dubai. Since that win, the Indian team has defeated Pakistan six consecutive times across the multi-nation tournaments.
Pakistan's record against India in ODI events has also been disappointing. Pakistan’s last ODI victory over India came in the final of the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, which was one of the most memorable nights in their history. Since that defeat, India have won every ODI match against them.
PCB and ECB oppose two-tier WTC, back equal opportunities for all 12 Test nations
Meanwhile, there have been discussions around a possible two-tier ICC World Test Championship (WTC), but this will make things tough for the small nations. One of the biggest concerns is that a two-division format could increase the gap between the powerful cricket boards and the rest of the world.
Reports suggest that both the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are not in favor of splitting Test cricket into two tiers. Instead, they want all 12 Test-playing nations to remain part of the same WTC structure.
Smaller nations fear financial blow
Many smaller cricket boards depend heavily on hosting countries like India, England, and Australia. Whenever one of these teams tours another nation, stadiums are packed, television viewership rises, and sponsors show greater interest. These series often bring in crucial revenue for the host board.
If Test cricket is divided into two groups, there is a fear that the top teams will mostly play among themselves. That would mean fewer opportunities for smaller nations to host high-profile opponents, which could seriously affect their earnings and overall development.
The "Big Three"—BCCI, ECB, and CA—are the richest and most powerful in world cricket and generate huge revenues through international cricket and domestic leagues. So, other countries like Pakistan voiced strongly against this model.
