Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal against India in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash sparked controversy and frustration on the field.
The incident occurred in the third over of Pakistan’s innings when Hardik Pandya bowled an off-cutter that gripped slightly. Fakhar, who had made a brisk 15 off 9 balls with three boundaries, edged the ball behind to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. The catch, however, was far from straightforward.
Replays showed the ball dipping low as it approached Samson, raising doubts about whether it carried cleanly. Fakhar immediately stood his ground, shaking his head in disbelief as the on-field umpires referred it upstairs. After multiple angles and a close zoom review, the third umpire ruled the catch fair, declaring Fakhar out.
The decision left Fakhar visibly angry. He reluctantly walked back to the pavilion, still shaking his head and expressing disbelief at the ruling. His dismissal left Pakistan at 21/1, denting their start after India opted to bowl first.
While the dismissal stands, the decision has already become a talking point among fans and analysts, with debates continuing over whether the catch was cleanly taken