India emerged victorious against Pakistan in the Super-4 clash of the Asia Cup 2025, winning by 6 wickets. Pakistan had made several adjustments to their team for the match, including changes to their opening batsmen. Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman were given the opening spots for Pakistan. Initially, it seemed their strategy was paying off, but in the third over, Fakhar Zaman was caught out off a delivery from Hardik Pandya. This early dismissal was a blow for Pakistan. Following the match, Pakistan captain Salman Agha shared his thoughts on the controversial dismissal.
Salman Agha expressed doubts about the umpire’s decision.
When Salman Agha addressed the press after the Super-4 defeat, he was questioned about Fakhar Zaman’s wicket. In response, the Pakistan captain questioned the umpire’s decision. Before diving into what the captain said, let’s recap the events on the field: how was Fakhar Zaman dismissed?
What transpired during Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal?
During the third over of Pakistan’s innings, Hardik Pandya bowled a delivery that edged off Fakhar Zaman’s bat, heading straight to the wicketkeeper, Sanju Samson, who completed the catch. Samson immediately appealed. To verify whether the catch was legal, the field umpire sought assistance from the third umpire. The third umpire reviewed the replays from multiple angles and ruled Fakhar Zaman out. The Pakistani batsman appeared displeased with the third umpire’s call.
Was the decision to dismiss Fakhar Zaman a mistake by the umpire?
Fakhar Zaman seemed to be in good form, making his dismissal a significant moment for Pakistan. Following the match, Salman Agha was asked about the dismissal. He stated that, in his opinion, the ball bounced before reaching the wicketkeeper’s hands. He suggested that the umpire might have erred in his decision.
A recurring issue for Pakistan.
This is the second instance during the Asia Cup 2025 where Pakistan has reacted to a loss in this manner. Following their defeat in the group stage, the team, also questioning the third umpire’s decision, even demanded the removal of the match referee. This behavior indicates a recurring issue within the Pakistani team. Regarding Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal, it was a clear dismissal, as the ball went directly into the hands of wicketkeeper Sanju Samson.
