DUBAI: The dismissal of Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman in the Asia Cup Super Four clash against India on Sunday triggered a storm of criticism from former cricketers, analysts and fans, who questioned the umpiring standards in the high-stakes encounter.
The incident took place in the third over of Pakistan’s innings when Fakhar, who had replaced Saim Ayub at the top of the order, edged an off-cutter from Hardik Pandya. Indian wicketkeeper Sanju Samson dived forward to take a low catch, with the ball appearing to dip as it approached his gloves.
The on-field umpires referred the decision to the third umpire, Ruchira Palliyaguruge of Sri Lanka, to check whether the catch was clean.
After multiple replays from different angles, the third umpire ruled Fakhar out, concluding that Samson’s fingers were underneath the ball.
Fakhar, who had scored 15 off eight balls with one boundary, stood his ground momentarily before walking off in visible disbelief. The opener later appeared to share his frustration with Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson in the dressing room.
The decision drew sharp reactions on social media and from several former Pakistani players. Fast bowler Mohammad Amir posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Fakhar was not out, that’s the tweet.”
Fakhar was not out that’s the tweet.
— Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) September 21, 2025
Former batter Fawad Alam claimed Pakistan were playing against “14, not 11,” while former captain Mohammad Hafeez urged the team to deliver an “A+ game” to overcome both India and questionable umpiring.
Seems like we are playing against 14, not 11. Fakhar was clearly not out!! #PakVsInd
— Fawad Alam (@iamfawadalam25) September 21, 2025
Ex-pacer Waqar Younis also voiced doubts, saying the catch looked inconclusive and should have gone in the batter’s favour. Veteran all-rounder Wasim Akram noted the lack of adequate camera angles for review, arguing the benefit of doubt should have gone to Fakhar.
Criticism extended beyond the cricketing fraternity. Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry described the call as a “terrible decision,” insisting the ball had touched the ground. Sports analyst Dr Nauman Niaz called it a “bizarre” and “abysmal” verdict despite the use of technology.
The dismissal was a major breakthrough for India, with Fakhar looking threatening after a brisk start alongside Sahibzada Farhan. The opening pair had added 21 runs before the controversial wicket fell, giving India an early edge in the marquee contest.
