Wasim Akram slams third umpire after Fakhar Zaman given out against India in Asia Cup 2025

Legendary pacer Wasim Akram criticizes the third umpire’s decision that dismissed Fakhar Zaman in the India vs Pakistan Super Four match at Asia Cup 2025, citing lack of clear evidence.

Wasim Akram (Image Credit: ICC)

The Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match between India and Pakistan witnessed a heated debate after opener Fakhar Zaman was dismissed by the third umpire in a decision that left fans and former players questioning the call. The controversy arose when Fakhar edged a delivery from Hardik Pandya, and India’s wicketkeeper Sanju Samson claimed a catch behind the stumps. Television replays, however, did not provide a definitive view, sparking debates over whether the decision was fair.

Former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram did not hold back his frustration, arguing that the rules of cricket clearly state that any uncertainty should favor the batsman. Akram stressed that the evidence presented to the third umpire was inconclusive and that Fakhar should have been given the benefit of the doubt. His comments drew attention to the increasing pressure on umpires in high-stakes matches, particularly in India vs Pakistan contests where every wicket is magnified.

While commenting during the game, he said, "The umpire should have checked more angles. If there is no conclusive evidence, then the benefit of the doubt should go to the batter."

The dismissal came at a critical moment in the match, disrupting Pakistan’s top-order momentum. Fakhar Zaman is known for providing strong starts, and losing him early forced the middle order to rebuild under immediate pressure. India, meanwhile, capitalized on the breakthrough, applying aggressive field placements and maintaining tight lines, which further rattled Pakistan’s batters.

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The impact of controversial wicket on match momentum in Asia Cup 2025

The Fakhar Zaman dismissal had a ripple effect on the game. Early wickets in matches between India and Pakistan often dictate the flow, and this controversial decision allowed India to seize the initiative. For Pakistan, it meant recalibrating their batting strategy on the fly, with the responsibility shifting middle order to stabilize the innings.

From a broader perspective, the incident has reignited discussions about the role of technology and third umpire protocols in cricket. While replays offer multiple angles, they do not always provide clear answers, leaving room for interpretation. Experts like Akram argue that until there is conclusive evidence, decisions should favor the batsman to maintain fairness.

Read Also: Asia Cup 2025 Super Four fixture, schedule, and streaming details.

This episode may prompt cricket authorities to revisit guidelines for third umpire referrals and the interpretation of catches in high-profile matches. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how such incidents are handled in the remainder of Asia Cup 2025, and whether reforms are considered to reduce the scope for contentious calls.

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