Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Yousuf (formerly Yousuf Yohana) courted controversy on Samaa TV after Pakistan’s seven-wicket defeat to India in the 2025 Asia Cup in Dubai. During the broadcast, Yousuf repeatedly called India’s star batsman Suryakumar Yadav a pig, deliberately distorting his name.
An anchor attempted to correct him, pointing out the cricketer’s actual name, but Yousuf ignored the correction and continued the abusive language. Another anchor appeared visibly bemused by his comments, managing only a wry smile.
Accusations Against India and Match Officials
Yousuf went further, alleging that India had “bought out” on-field umpires and used the match referee to “torture” Pakistan.
“These guys are not able to get out of the film world,” Yousuf said on Samaa TV. “Ye Suar Kumar jo hai… Suar Kumar Yadav. India should be ashamed of the way they are trying to win. Getting the umpires in cahoots with them, using the referee to torture (Pakistan). They have probably given the umpire’s finger to (Indian Prime Minister, Narendra) Modi; it just wouldn’t get up whenever we appealed.”
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been raising concerns about the match referee, former Zimbabwe international Andy Pycroft, accusing him of violating ICC Code of Conduct rules and even allegedly instructing the players not to shake hands at the toss. Reports suggest the PCB sought Pycroft’s removal from the Asia Cup, but the ICC reportedly rejected the request.
Suryakumar Shines Amid Controversy
Despite the verbal attacks, Suryakumar Yadav remained focused on the field. He was India’s top scorer in the match and ended the game with a winning six. Following the victory, he walked directly to the dressing room without shaking hands with Pakistan players. In the post-match presentation ceremony, he dedicated the win to the Pahalgam attack victims and the Indian armed forces, showcasing maturity amid the tensions.