IND vs PAK: India defeated Pakistan by 6 wickets in the Super 4 match of the Asia Cup 2025. Pakistan made several major changes to their team for this high-voltage match, the most notable of which was their opening pair. Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman opened the innings for Pakistan. Both made a quick start, and it seemed that Pakistan's move was successful. However, in the third over, Fakhar Zaman was caught behind the wicket by Sanju Samson off Hardik Pandya's bowling, dealing Pakistan their first major blow.
Fakhar Zaman's Controversial DismissalThe third over of Pakistan's innings was underway when Hardik Pandya's delivery took the outside edge of Fakhar Zaman's bat and landed directly into the gloves of wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. Samson made a strong appeal upon catching the ball. The on-field umpire consulted the third umpire to verify the validity of the catch. The third umpire examined the footage from every angle and declared Fakhar Zaman out. However, Fakhar appeared unhappy and surprised with the decision. Dissatisfaction with the decision was evident in the Pakistani camp present on the field as well.
Salman Agha's Questioning the UmpireIn the post-match press conference, Pakistan captain Salman Agha broke his silence regarding Fakhar Zaman's dismissal. He questioned the umpire's decision, saying, "For me, the ball bounced and went into the wicketkeeper's hands. The umpire can make a mistake." Salman's statement immediately went viral on social media and sparked a debate among cricket fans.
Was there really a mistake?However, replays and technical analysis made it clear that the ball did not bounce. The ball took the edge of Fakhar's bat and went straight into Sanju Samson's gloves. The third umpire's decision was technically correct, but the Pakistani captain and his team's questioning of it became a topic of discussion.
Pakistan's old habit?This isn't the first time Pakistan has been embroiled in such controversies following a defeat. Following their group stage defeat in the Asia Cup 2025, the team demanded the removal of the match referee. Questioning Fakhar Zaman's dismissal in the Super Four is seen as a continuation of that same practice. Cricket experts believe Pakistan should focus on its strategy and performance instead of making such excuses.
India's Remarkable VictoryOn the other hand, India performed brilliantly in this match. The pair of Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson performed brilliantly at crucial moments, while India's batting easily achieved the target. With this victory, India has further strengthened its position in the Super Four.