Asia Cup 2025 Final: Wasim Akram Criticizes Suryakumar Yadav for 'Unnecessary' Review Despite India's Victory

The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan in Dubai was full of drama both on and off the field. While India clinched their ninth Asia Cup title in style, the spotlight briefly shifted from the cricketing action to a controversial moment involving Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav (SKY). Pakistan’s legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram strongly criticized SKY’s call for a review, calling it “completely unnecessary.”

The Controversial Incident

The flashpoint occurred in the 16th over of Pakistan’s innings. Salman Agha pushed an Axar Patel delivery towards extra cover and rushed back for a second run. Suryakumar Yadav, fielding in the circle, dived to stop the ball and quickly threw it towards the wicketkeeper. However, his throw struck Agha, who was completing his run.

Immediately, SKY appealed for “obstructing the field” and requested the umpires to review the incident. But TV replays clearly showed that Agha had run in a straight line and made no deliberate attempt to interfere with the throw. The third umpire dismissed the appeal, ruling in favor of the batter.

Commenting on the matter, Wasim Akram did not mince words: “It was completely unnecessary. That kind of appeal was not needed at all.” His remarks sparked instant debate among fans, with opinions divided over whether SKY was simply exploring all options as captain, showing overzealousness, or crossing the line of sportsmanship.

Post-Match Tensions

The drama did not end there. After the match, Agha criticized the Indian skipper for not shaking hands publicly, although he acknowledged that SKY met him privately. This further fueled discussions around the spirit of the game.

Interestingly, despite the controversy, Suryakumar Yadav donated his entire match fee to the Indian Army, earning praise for his gesture. Yet, the review incident remained a talking point across cricketing circles.

India’s Clinical Bowling Display

Away from the off-field debates, India’s bowlers once again proved their dominance in the high-pressure final. Pakistan had started strongly with an 84-run opening partnership, courtesy of Sahibzada Farhan (57) and Fakhar Zaman (46). But once the stand was broken, their batting collapsed dramatically.

From 84 for no loss, Pakistan slumped to 146 all out in 19.1 overs, losing nine wickets for just 33 runs. India’s left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav was the wrecker-in-chief, delivering a brilliant spell of 4/30. Supporting him were Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, and Axar Patel, who picked up two wickets each.

Tilak Varma Leads India’s Chase

Chasing 147, India had an early wobble but recovered thanks to a steady partnership between Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson. Later, Varma, who remained unbeaten on 69 runs, built another crucial stand with Shivam Dube to steer India closer to victory.

With just two balls remaining, Rinku Singh sealed the win in dramatic fashion, smashing his very first ball for a boundary off Haris Rauf. India lifted the Asia Cup 2025 trophy, their ninth in tournament history, adding another glorious chapter to their cricketing legacy.

The Bigger Picture

While India celebrated a hard-fought triumph, the debate surrounding SKY’s “unnecessary review” continues. Was it a captain’s instinct to leave no stone unturned, or was it a lapse in judgment that risked his reputation for fair play?

One thing is clear—the Asia Cup 2025 final will be remembered not only for India’s victory but also for the controversy that added spice to the historic clash.