A massive controversy erupted in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match between Pakistan and India in Dubai after opener Fakhar Zaman was declared out by the third umpire despite replays showing the ball had touched the ground before reaching the Indian wicketkeeper.
The decision sparked outrage on social media, with fans across both countries slamming the call. Hashtag “Not Out” quickly trended online.
Even Indian journalist Rahul Rawat admitted Fakhar was wrongly given out, saying the ball clearly touched the ground before going into the keeper’s gloves. Pakistani cricketer Fawad Alam went further, remarking:
“It looks as if we are playing against 14 people instead of 11.”
Singer Ali Zafar also criticised the decision but praised Pakistan’s batting effort.
The controversy added fuel to already tense relations between the two sides. After India’s earlier group-stage win by seven wickets on September 14, the team refused to shake hands with Pakistani players — a move that infuriated the Pakistan camp.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) formally lodged a protest with the ICC, alleging that match referee Andy Pycroft had instructed captain Salman Agha not to approach Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav for a handshake at the toss. The PCB demanded Pycroft’s removal and even threatened to withdraw from the tournament.
Although Pycroft later apologised, tensions remain high. Indian media has reported that the team will continue its no-handshake policy for Sunday’s rematch.
Meanwhile, players tried to tone down the controversy. India’s Kuldeep Yadav said, “When you step onto the field it’s just a batter in front of you.” Pakistan captain Agha remained confident, stating his team could beat any opponent with their current form.
The political backdrop has only intensified the rivalry. The neighbours, who only play at neutral venues due to strained ties, engaged in their worst conflict since 1999 earlier this year. The May hostilities, triggered by an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, left more than 70 people dead before a ceasefire was reached.
The stage is now set for another high-stakes clash between the arch-rivals in Dubai, with cricketing tensions mirroring political strains.
