Third Umpire’s Wrong Call: Fakhar Zaman Not Out Say Cricket Experts After Asia Cup Dismissal
Fakhar Zaman was furious with the decision during the Super Four match against India in Asia Cup 2025. The Pakistani opener’s dismissal has become the talking point of the high-stakes encounter between traditional rivals.
How the Controversial Incident Happened
The disputed dismissal occurred early in Pakistan’s innings:
- India won toss and chose to field first in Super Four match
- Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman opened Pakistan’s innings together
- Fakhar scored aggressive 15 runs off 8 balls with three boundaries
- Hardik Pandya’s delivery edged to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson’s gloves
- Catch appeared doubtful prompting third umpire referral decision
CCTV Replays Show Clear Evidence
Multiple replay angles revealed concerning details about the dismissal:
- Zoom replays clearly showed ball touching ground before reaching gloves
- Ball touched the ground according to cricket experts
- Several angles confirmed ball bounced before wicketkeeper collected it
- Despite clear evidence, third umpire declared Fakhar Zaman out
Cricket Experts Voice Strong Criticism
Former Pakistani cricketers expressed outrage over the wrong decision:
- Former Pakistan bowler Waqar Younis slammed the third umpire publicly
- Mohammad Amir tweeted clearly stating “Fakhar Zaman was not out”
- Ex-Test cricketer Fawad Alam called decision obviously wrong in tweet
- Fawad sarcastically wrote Pakistan playing against 14 players instead of 11
Social Media Erupts Over Wrong Decision
Cricketers and social media users questioned Fakhar’s dismissal against India with widespread criticism:
- Users called replay evidence clearly showing Fakhar not out
- Social media flooded with protests against biased umpiring decisions
- Cricket fans demanded better umpiring standards in crucial matches
- Many questioned integrity of third umpire decision making process
Impact on Match and Series
The controversial dismissal had significant consequences for Pakistan:
- Lost aggressive opener at crucial stage of innings development
- Decision potentially changed course of high-pressure Super Four match
- Added to existing tensions between two cricketing nations recently
- Highlighted ongoing concerns about umpiring standards in international cricket
Call for Better Umpiring Standards
This incident raises important questions about cricket’s decision-making process:
- Need for improved technology and clearer protocols required
- Third umpire decisions should be more accurate and transparent
- International cricket deserves better officiating in crucial matches
- Players’ trust in umpiring system needs protection and restoration
