Controversy Unfolds As Umpire Changes Call Despite No DRS In India vs Afghanistan In Emerging Asia Cup Semi-Final

India A crashed out of the Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 at the hands of Afghanistan A in the semi-final, after the Afghans put up a mammoth 206 batting first. However, despite their sensational first innings, controversy erupted in the middle of the Afghan batting. The opening partnership of 137 runs between Sediqullah Atal and Zubaid Akbari was broken when the latter was given out caught behind. However, a big row followed, with the Zubaid raising a finger at the umpire, and the Afghanistan coach instructing him to not leave the field.

While initially the umpire had not raised his finger, after a long third umpire check, Zubaid was given out. With no DRS (Decision Review System) available at the Al Amerat Cricket Stadium in Oman, Zubaid was visibly unhappy with the change in decision.

Breakthrough for India A! Aaqib Khan strikes India's 1st wicket against Afghanistan A, sending Zubaid Akbari back to the pavilion.

Watch #EmergingAsiaCupOnStar Semi-final 2, #INDAvAFGA LIVE NOW! pic.twitter.com/tRJLeK84LK

The controversy heightened when it seemed as if the Afghanistan coaching unit had advised Zubaid to not leave the field of play, as they engaged in discussion with the match officials. At one point, the coaching staff of both India and Afghanistan could be seen heavily debating the dismissal.

big drama on ground as Zubaid Akbari refuses to leave after being out. Finally, Tilak Varma and match referee had to tell him to go. #INDAvsAFGA pic.twitter.com/ck5KzOe3zo

Eventually, Zubaid did walk off, having scored a well-made 64 off 40 balls.

India A vs Afghanistan A, Emerging Teams Asia Cup semi-final: As it happened

Following Zubaid's dismissal, opening partner Sediqullah Atal got out for 83, while a late flurry from Karim