India-Pakistan Cricket: 6 Biggest Controversies of All Time

India and Pakistan cricket matches are often high-stakes encounters that come with intense emotions and sometimes controversies. Here are some of the biggest controversies in India-Pakistan cricket history.

1996 World Cup Quarterfinal at Bangalore

The match itself was highly charged, and tensions were running high. During the game, Aamir Sohail hit a boundary off Venkatesh Prasad and gestured towards the bowler, provoking him. In the next delivery, Prasad clean-bowled Sohail, leading to a memorable confrontation.

1999 Chennai Test

During the Test match, Sachin Tendulkar’s dismissal by Shoaib Akhtar had sparked controversy. This was because he was given out despite replays suggesting otherwise, which sparked significant debates. Pakistan won that match.

2003 World Cup Clash

Shoaib Akhtar's "controversial" delivery to Sachin Tendulkar was a major talking point. However, Tendulkar's incredible batting performance, especially his uppercut six off Akhtar, overshadowed the controversy, but the tension during the match was palpable.

2007 ICC World T20 Final

The final was marred by controversy when Misbah-ul-Haq’s scoop shot was caught, leading to India’s victory. There was much debate over whether the shot selection was appropriate and the pressure that led to it.

2010 Asia Cup Clash

Gautam Gambhir and Kamran Akmal had a heated exchange during the match, resulting in an on-field confrontation. The incident required intervention from the umpires and senior players to calm things down.

2011 World Cup Semifinal at Mohali

The semifinal match had high political and emotional stakes, with former Indian PM Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani attending. Controversy surrounded the dismissal of Sachin Tendulkar, who was not given out by the third umpire despite a seemingly clear edge which led to many debates.