Pakistan Files Official Complaint with ICC Over Fakhar Zaman’s Dismissal Against India
Pakistan’s team management has lodged a formal complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding the controversial dismissal of opener Fakhar Zaman during the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match against India on September 21. The incident has sparked widespread debate and criticism within the cricketing community.
The dismissal occurred in the third over when Hardik Pandya bowled an off-cutter that Fakhar edged to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. The on-field umpire, Gazi Sohel, did not give the decision immediately and referred it to the third umpire, Sri Lanka’s Ruchira Palliyaguruge. After reviewing multiple replays, Palliyaguruge ruled the catch as valid, leading to Fakhar’s departure for 15 runs. However, several replays suggested that the ball may have bounced before reaching Samson’s gloves, casting doubt on the correctness of the decision.
Pakistan’s captain, Salman Ali Agha, expressed his concerns post-match, stating, “It did look like it bounced ahead of the keeper.” He emphasized that while umpires can make mistakes, the dismissal’s timing was crucial, as Fakhar’s aggressive start could have propelled Pakistan to a higher total.
Following the match, team manager Naveed Cheema approached match referee Andy Pycroft to address the issue. However, Pycroft indicated that the matter fell outside his jurisdiction. Consequently, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) formally submitted a complaint to the ICC, seeking an investigation into the third umpire’s decision-making process.
This complaint adds to the ongoing tensions between the two nations, which have been further strained by previous controversies, including disputes over umpiring decisions and player conduct. The cricketing world now awaits the ICC’s response to Pakistan’s concerns.
