(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Files Official Complaint to ICC Over Fakhar Zaman’s Controversial Dismissal Against India
Sep 22, 2025 | 1:50 pm
The 2025 Asia Cup continues to deliver controversy both on and off the field. Pakistan has officially lodged a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) after opener Fakhar Zaman was given out in a hotly debated decision during Sunday’s clash against India.
The Controversial Moment
Fakhar was adjudged caught behind in just the third over of the innings. Wicketkeeper Sanju Samson claimed a low catch, and the on-field decision was sent upstairs to third umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge. After multiple replays, the TV umpire ruled Fakhar out, despite many analysts and fans insisting the footage was inconclusive.
Visibly frustrated, Fakhar walked back to the pavilion as Indian players celebrated. The dismissal immediately ignited debate, with fans and former cricketers questioning both the accuracy of the technology and the umpire’s judgment.
Social Media and Fan Reactions
The incident quickly trended across social media, where supporters expressed anger and disappointment. Many Pakistani fans argued that the benefit of doubt should have gone to the batter, while Indian supporters defended the decision. The debate highlighted once again how the Indo-Pak rivalry magnifies every moment on the field.
PCB’s Formal Protest
According to team management, this is the second time during the Asia Cup that Pakistan has approached the ICC regarding officiating standards. Earlier, concerns had been raised about match referee Andy Pycroft following the first encounter between the two sides.
This latest complaint focuses specifically on Fakhar’s dismissal, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) demanding a transparent review of the decision-making process. Officials emphasized that such moments can influence not just a match but the outcome of a major tournament.
Growing Rivalry and High Stakes
The Asia Cup has once again underlined how fiercely contested Pakistan–India matches remain. Every call, decision, and performance is placed under the microscope. With the possibility of a third meeting between the two teams later in the tournament, tensions are expected to remain high.
What’s Next?
The ICC is expected to review the complaint in the coming days, though it remains unclear whether any formal action will be taken. For now, Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal remains one of the most talked-about moments of the Asia Cup — a reminder that in cricket’s greatest rivalry, even a single decision can dominate headlines.
