Fakhan Zaman ‘not out’: ICC receives complaint over controversial dismissal

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has received a formal complaint from the Pakistan team management regarding the controversial dismissal of Fakhar Zaman during the high-voltage Pakistan Vs India clash in the Asia Cup 2025.

The decision, made by the third umpire during a crucial phase of the match, has ignited a firestorm of criticism from former players, journalists, and fans alike. Video footage and camera angles circulating on social media appear to show that the ball bounced before entering the gloves of the Indian wicketkeeper. This moment is now at the center of widespread outrage.

Also read: Haris Rauf’s 6-0 style earns him ‘Rafale Hunter’ title

According to sources, the complaint was formally lodged with ICC match referee Andy Pycroft, with the Pakistan camp insisting that Fakhar was “clearly not out” and that the third umpire’s call had significantly altered the course of the match.

The incident quickly became a trending topic across platforms, with #FakharZamanNotOut dominating social media in both Pakistan and India. Cricket fans were unanimous in their disbelief, calling out the “third-class decision” and accusing the third umpire of facilitating India’s advantage.

Former Pakistani pacer Mohammad Amir weighed in, stating bluntly, “Fakhar Zaman was not out.” Legends Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram also criticised the decision, while former cricketer Mohammad Hafeez expressed strong reservations about the officiating.

Interestingly, even across the border, questions were raised. Indian journalist Rahul Rawat said the evidence was clear, “The ball hit Fakhar’s bat, bounced off the ground, and then went into the wicketkeeper’s gloves. It was not out.”

In a post-match press conference, Pakistan’s stand-in skipper Salman Ali Agha addressed the controversy, saying, “Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal was probably wrong. We thought the ball had touched the ground. But in the end, the umpire’s decision stands.”

Also read: Asia Cup final: Pak’s hopes hang in balance after second defeat to India

He also admitted that Pakistan fell short in other areas of the game, noting that the team missed out on 10-15 extra runs and were unable to contain India’s aggressive batting during the powerplay. “We didn’t bowl as well as we had planned,” he admitted. “But we’ll look to improve ahead of our next game against Sri Lanka.”