The Asia Cup 2025 group game between Pakistan and UAE witnessed an unusual delay when on-field umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge was struck on the ear by a return throw. The throw, intended for bowler Saim Ayub, hit the umpire in the sixth over of the UAE innings. Pakistan players rushed to check on him as their physio carried out a concussion assessment. Palliyaguruge eventually left the ground, and reserve umpire Gazi Sohel of Bangladesh stepped in.
Pakistan Set Up Super 4s Clash With India
After the brief interruption, Pakistan went on to secure a 41-run win over UAE, ensuring a high-voltage Super 4s clash against India.
The game itself began an hour late following Pakistan’s threat to withdraw over the recent handshake controversy with India. Captain Salman Agha’s team eventually agreed to play and made their mark with a clinical display.
Afridi’s Power Finish Lifts Pakistan
Pakistan’s batting faltered early but Shaheen Shah Afridi’s 29 not out from 14 balls pushed the score to 146 for 9. Senior batter Fakhar Zaman struck a vital 50 off 36 deliveries, while Mohammed Haris added 18.
UAE bowlers dominated for most of the innings. Junaid Siddique (4/18) struck early and Simranjeet Singh (3/26) tightened the screws in the middle overs. Simranjeet removed Fakhar Zaman and Mohammed Nawaz, celebrating with a “Siddhu Moosewala thigh slap.”
UAE Falter in Run Chase
UAE’s response never gained momentum. Shaheen Afridi (2/16) knocked over Alishan Sharafu, while Abrar Ahmed (2/13 in 4 overs) dismissed captain Muhammad Waseem with a sharp leg-break.
Saim Ayub (1/18) added pressure by bowling Muhammad Zohaib with a straight delivery that stayed low. Rahul Chopra resisted with 35 from 35 balls, but he struggled to find boundaries. The chase ended at 105 in 17.4 overs, far short of the target.
Road Ahead
The result pushed Pakistan into the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4s, where they will meet India in a much-anticipated clash. With Afridi’s explosive cameo and a disciplined bowling attack, Pakistan enter the knockout stage with growing confidence.
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