Pakistan’s cricket team management has formally questioned the dismissal of opener Fakhar Zaman during their Super Fours match against India in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 at Dubai. Fakhar was promoted to open and started aggressively, hitting back-to-back fours off Jasprit Bumrah in the second over. However, Hardik Pandya delivered an off-cutter in the following over that induced an edge to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. The on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire, Ruchira Palliyaguruge, who declared Fakhar out after checking multiple angles.
Pakistan’s team manager, Naveed Akram Cheema, has alleged that the third umpire did not thoroughly review all available evidence. The management claimed the replays were not “clear and conclusive” enough to confirm the dismissal, suggesting that the decision unfairly favoured the fielding side. Fakhar, visibly frustrated, shook his head while returning to the dugout after scoring 15 runs from 9 balls.
Captain Salman Agha Comments on Controversial Call
After India chased down the 172-run target to win by six wickets, Pakistan’s T20I captain, Salman Ali Agha, expressed subtle doubts about the dismissal. He indicated that the ball might have bounced before reaching the wicketkeeper and acknowledged that umpires can make mistakes. Agha added that Fakhar’s continued presence could have pushed Pakistan’s total closer to 190, emphasizing the potential impact of the controversial decision.
The incident has sparked debate over third umpire reviews in T20 matches, highlighting the fine line between correct judgment and contentious calls. While India celebrated the win, Pakistan’s camp continues to press for clarity regarding the handling of such critical decisions in high-stakes encounters.
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