A fresh controversy erupted during the high-voltage Asia Cup 2025 clash between Pakistan and India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium after Pakistan’s opening batter Fakhar Zaman was given out under controversial circumstances. The Pakistan team management has lodged an official protest with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against the decision.
Incident Details
- The incident occurred on the third ball of the third over of Pakistan’s innings.
- Indian bowler Hardik Pandya delivered the ball which Fakhar Zaman edged faintly.
- Wicketkeeper Sanju Samson dived low to attempt the catch near the ground.
- On-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire.
- After reviewing several replays, third umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge declared Fakhar Zaman out.
Fakhar stood at the crease for a few moments in disbelief before walking back to the pavilion with visible frustration.
Response of Team Management
Sources confirmed that Pakistan team manager Naveed Akram Cheema immediately lodged a protest with match referee Andy Pycroft. The referee termed it outside his jurisdiction and forwarded the matter to the ICC’s Umpires Manager.
Players and Former Cricketers Reaction
The decision drew sharp criticism from both current and former cricketers:
- Mohammad Hafeez: “Pakistan needs to play an A+ game to beat both India and the umpiring.”
- Mohammad Amir: “Fakhar was not out. That’s the tweet.”
- Fawad Alam: “Feels like we are playing against 14 men, not 11. Fakhar was clearly not out.”
Captain Salman Ali Agha’s Statement
In the post-match press conference, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha also questioned the ruling:
“In my view, the ball touched the ground before it was caught. Umpires are human and can make mistakes, but I believe this decision was not correct.”
He added that if Fakhar had continued batting during the powerplay, Pakistan’s score could have reached close to 190 runs.
Fans Reaction
Pakistani fans expressed anger on social media:
- On X (Twitter), #JusticeForFakhar and #AsiaCup2025 began trending.
- Supporters argued that “such decisions disturb the balance of the game.”
Importance of Controversy
The incident carries added significance because:
- Pakistan–India matches are globally regarded as “high-voltage” encounters.
- Questionable umpiring in a premier tournament like the Asia Cup can damage cricket’s credibility.
- ICC is now under pressure to conduct a transparent review of the decision.
Key Takeaways
- Fakhar Zaman controversially dismissed in the 3rd over.
- Pakistan formally filed a complaint with the ICC.
- Former cricketers Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Amir and Fawad Alam slammed the decision.
- Captain Salman Ali Agha suggested Pakistan could have scored 190 if Fakhar had stayed on.
- Social media trends: #JusticeForFakhar.
Comparative Overview
| Aspect | Details |
| Batting Position | Opener |
| Match Context | Asia Cup 2025 vs India |
| Runs Scored | Few runs before dismissal |
| Potential Impact | Could have set a strong powerplay base |
The incident has not only dealt blow to Pakistan’s campaign in the Asia Cup 2025 but also raised serious questions about the standards of ICC’s umpiring and decision-making. Experts believe the match could have taken a different turn had Fakhar Zaman not been controversially dismissed. All eyes are now on the ICC to see what action it takes regarding Pakistan’s formal protest.
