During the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match between India and Pakistan, a controversial decision by the third umpire regarding Fakhar Zaman's dismissal has ignited debate and drawn criticism. The incident occurred in the third over of Pakistan's innings, when Hardik Pandya bowled a delivery that Fakhar Zaman edged to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. The on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire to determine whether the catch was clean.
Replays showed the ball close to the ground as Samson completed the catch, leading to uncertainty. After reviewing multiple angles and replays, third umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge ruled Fakhar out, concluding that Samson's fingers were under the ball. Fakhar Zaman appeared shocked and lingered on the pitch, shaking his head in disbelief before departing. His reaction suggested he did not believe the ball had carried cleanly to Samson.
The decision immediately sparked heated debate among fans and cricket experts. Many questioned whether there was conclusive evidence to overturn the on-field umpire's initial decision. Some analysts, like former Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis, expressed doubt, suggesting the ball might have bounced before reaching Samson's gloves. "I am not sure that the ball carried to Samson. It seemed like the ball bounced before the ball went into Sanju Samson's gloves. That's the main reason why Fakhar was so shocked and stunned and rightly so,” said Waqar on commentary.
Conversely, former Indian coach Ravi Shastri stated that the replays appeared to show Samson's fingers under the ball and that the evidence needed to be conclusive to overturn the on-field decision. "It has to be conclusive for an on-field decision to be turned around. For the third umpire, Samson had his fingers under the ball,” said Shastri.
The dismissal was a crucial moment in the high-stakes India-Pakistan encounter. Fakhar had started aggressively, scoring 15 runs off 9 balls with three boundaries. His wicket provided India with an important breakthrough, removing a dangerous opener who has historically performed well against India.
Pakistani fans and some experts have criticized the third umpire's decision, with some accusing the match officials of bias towards India. Social media platforms have been flooded with opinions, replays, and discussions surrounding the controversial catch. Many Pakistani fans expressed their disappointment and questioned the fairness of the decision. Some fans even took to social media to express their anger and frustration, with some using strong language to describe the situation.
Fakhar himself appeared visibly upset with the decision, shaking his head and seemingly gesturing or speaking to someone as he left the field. He was also seen complaining to Pakistan coach Mike Hesson about the decision.
The incident has further intensified the already fierce rivalry between India and Pakistan. Such incidents often lead to increased scrutiny of umpiring decisions and add fuel to the passion surrounding these high-profile matches. While the laws of cricket are clear, the interpretation of replays and angles often leads to differing opinions and controversies, especially in high-pressure situations.
