Shahid Afridi barks at 3rd umpire; accuses IPL involvement around Fakhar Zaman decision

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi slammed the umpires following Fakhar Zaman’s controversial dismissal in the Super Four Asia Cup 2025 match against India. The ex-Pakistan skipper questioned the third umpire’s integrity and dragged the Indian Premier League (IPL) into the dismissal controversy.

India defeated Pakistan once again in the recent match at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. The Men in Blue secured a six-wicket victory. However, the match was overshadowed by Fakhar Zaman’s controversial dismissal, with former Pakistan players claiming it should have been ruled not out.

Fakhar Zaman’s Dismissal Sparks Controversy in Asia Cup 2025

Fakhar Zaman was promoted to open the innings against India. He started his innings by hitting three boundaries off eight deliveries. However, his knock ended at 15 when he edged a delivery from Hardik Pandya behind to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson.

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The on-field umpire referred the decision to the TV umpire after Fakhar initially refused to walk. Sri Lankan third umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge reviewed multiple angles and stated that Samson had his fingers under the ball while taking the catch. The third umpire ruled Fakhar out.

Fakhar appeared frustrated as he walked back, shaking his head, while Pakistan coach Mike Hesson also looked displeased. Notably, it was a tough decision, but the third umpire followed the rules.

Wickets ka 𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐊 swaagat, yet again 🤩

Hardik Pandya nicks one off Fakhar Zaman 🔥

Watch #INDvPAK LIVE NOW, on the Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #DPWorldAsiaCup2025 pic.twitter.com/19fR5GiMn3

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 21, 2025

Unhone IPL Me Bhi Toh Umpiring Karni Hai - Shahid Afridi

Speaking on a Pakistani local TV channel, Shahid Afridi stated that the umpire “has to umpire in the IPL too” regarding Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal.

“Unhone IPL me bhi toh umpiring karni hai [He has to umpire in the IPL too]," Afridi said with a cheeky grin while analysing Pakistan’s defeat on Samaa TV.

Another ex-Pakistan player, Mohammad Yusuf, echoed Afridi’s criticism, saying that the match official did not review enough angles before giving Fakhar out.

“They didn’t even check many angles. Fakhar had hit three fours and was dealing with Bumrah with ease in the first over. His wicket was crucial for India," Yusuf said.

PCB Files Complaint with ICC Over Fakhar Zaman’s Controversial Dismissal Against India

Earlier, former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar called the third umpire’s decision to give Fakhar out “wrong.” He stated that Fakhar could have turned the match in Pakistan’s favor.

"Fakhar wasn't out. With 26 cameras available, why did the third umpire only check two angles? If Fakhar had stayed, the match might have turned," he had said.

Pakistan’s team manager, Naveed Akram Cheema, reportedly sent an email to the match referee and umpires questioning the decision to give Zaman out.

According to Samaa TV, the Pakistan management argued that the TV umpire did not review all available angles and that the evidence was not “clear and conclusive” to justify the dismissal.

They complained that the umpire’s call favored the fielding side despite replays showing some uncertainty. Pakistan expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the decision.

Also read: Imran Khan mocks PCB Chairman & Army Chief after India drubbing; international humiliation for Pakistan