After a tough loss in the second Test against South Africa, the Pakistan cricket team is now preparing to face the hosts in a three-match T20I series, starting Tuesday. A few days before the series, the Pakistan selectors announced the T20I squad for South Africa, and one major surprise was the exclusion of Fakhar Zaman from the main lineup. Instead, the left-handed opener has been placed in the reserves, while Babar Azam returns as captain to lead the Pakistan T20 team once again.

The decision to drop Fakhar Zaman surprised fans and cricket experts alike, especially after his solid performance in the Asia Cup 2025, where he finished as Pakistan’s second-highest run-scorer behind Sahibzada Farhan.

Fakhar played a key role in the Asia Cup final against India, scoring briskly and helping Pakistan post a competitive total. Despite these impressive performances, the team management decided to rest Fakhar Zaman for the South Africa T20I series, focusing on squad rotation and player workload.

Ahead of the first match, Pakistan's head coach addressed the media and explained the reasoning behind the decision. “We’ve spoken with Fakhar Zaman, he’s determined to make a strong ODI comeback, so we’ve given him a break from T20 cricket to work on his batting technique,” he said. The coach emphasised that the move was part of a long-term strategy to help Fakhar regain consistency and improve his game for the 50-over format ahead of future Pakistan ODI series.

Fakhar Zaman’s Next Move: Preparing for a Big ODI Comeback

Since the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, where Fakhar Zaman was one of Pakistan’s top performers and key run-scorers, the left-handed opener has faced several challenges.

Over the past year, he has struggled with recurring injuries and minor disciplinary issues, affecting his consistency and availability for international matches. 

Fakhar has missed multiple games due to fitness concerns and workload management. Additionally, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a warning to him for making public comments in support of Babar Azam during a previous leadership controversy within the Pakistan cricket setup.

See Also: [WATCH] Rohit Sharma shocked after magician reads Indian captain's mind as video goes viral

Fakhar last played an ODI during the opening game of the Champions Trophy before getting injured again. Now at 35, he wants to focus on his ODI career and return stronger. Taking a short break from T20Is will allow him to work on his form, fitness, and technique as he looks to make a strong comeback to Pakistan’s ODI squad.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Why was Fakhar Zaman dropped from Pakistan’s T20I squad against South Africa?

Fakhar Zaman was rested from the T20I series against South Africa to focus on improving his batting technique and fitness for a potential ODI comeback. According to Pakistan’s head coach, the decision was made as part of a long-term strategy to help him prepare for the upcoming 50-over tournaments.

2. Did Fakhar Zaman perform well before being dropped from the T20I squad?

Yes, Fakhar Zaman performed strongly in the Asia Cup 2025, where he finished as Pakistan’s second-highest run-scorer after Sahibzada Farhan. He also played a vital innings in the final against India, helping Pakistan post a competitive total before being rested for the South Africa T20Is.

3. What did Pakistan’s head coach say about Fakhar Zaman’s exclusion?

Pakistan’s head coach clarified that Fakhar Zaman’s omission from the South Africa T20I squad was not due to poor form but a planned break. The coach revealed that Fakhar requested time to work on his technique and fitness to prepare for an ODI comeback, emphasising it was a mutual and career-focused decision.

4. Has Fakhar Zaman faced any issues since the 2023 World Cup?

Since the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, Fakhar Zaman has dealt with injuries and minor disciplinary issues. He missed several matches due to fitness concerns and was also cautioned by the PCB for publicly supporting Babar Azam during a leadership controversy in Pakistan cricket.

5. Will Fakhar Zaman return to Pakistan’s ODI squad soon?

Fakhar Zaman is expected to make a comeback in Pakistan’s ODI setup once he regains full fitness and refines his batting technique. With his focus now on improving consistency and form, selectors and fans anticipate his return in the upcoming ODI series later in 2025.

In the Asia Cup 2025 Final, Pakistan openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman provided a strong start. But the Indian spinners brought the Men in Blues back in the game with superb bowling performances, as they picked up wickets in back-to-back overs. In the crucial 15th over, while the Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman seemed very dangerous, the leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed him bravely. 

Pakistan openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman put on an 84-run partnership for the first wicket, as Farhan was dismissed in the 10th over after another great half-century. Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy took that wicket, and later the Indian spinners dominated to bring an entire batting collapse of the Pakistan team.

Opener Fakhar Zaman started slowly, as Farhan was charging the Indian bowlers, which was likely a part of their game plan. But after that opening wicket fall, Fakhar didn't get any proper support from the other end, as the pressure was building up on him. 

WATCH: Axar Patel strikes as Mohammad Haris falls for a duck in Asia Cup 2025 Final IND vs PAK

Asia Cup 2025 Final, India vs Pakistan: Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed Fakhar Zaman just after a sixer

While Pakistan were losing under pressure in the middle overs, Fakhar tried his best. In the 15th over, he smashed a sixer to Varun Chakaravarthy. It was a full and wide delivery, which Fakhar smacked over the long on for an overboundary. On the very next ball, Varun delivered another wide delivery with a shorter length, and Fakhar once again went for that but couldn't control his stroke. The ball went to the backward point, and Kuldeep Yadav took that crucial catch to bring another crucial wicket for India. 

Fakhar scored 46 off 35 balls with two fours and two sixes, while Pakistan were suddenly down to 126/4 after once dominating at 113/1. It was another big wicket for India, as the Indian bowlers took full control of the game since then, as Pakistan were later bowled out for only 146 runs in 19.1 overs. 

Watch: Fakhar Zaman's dismissal video

Varun Chakaravarthy gets the big fish, Fakhar Zaman 💪🔥

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After overcoming Sri Lanka in a must-win contest, Pakistan managed to keep their Asia Cup 2025 campaign alive. That victory ensured they had another shot at reaching the tournament final.

Today, they face Bangladesh in what has effectively become a virtual knockout battle, with the winner earning the right to challenge India in the summit clash. The stakes are high, and both sides know this game could define their journey in the competition.

However, Pakistan’s hopes took a serious blow early in the innings. Struggling against disciplined bowling, they collapsed under pressure, losing five wickets before even crossing the 50-run mark. The early setbacks left their middle order with an uphill task, as the team’s chances of survival in the match and the tournament now hang in the balance.

See Also: India vs England: how to watch ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 warm-up match live?

Rishad Hossain Sends Fakhar Zaman to Pakistan’s Dressing Room:

Pakistan’s batting began on a shaky note as they lost two quick wickets within the first two overs. Opener Fakhar Zaman managed to hit a couple of boundaries but failed to provide stability. His short stay at the crease added little value, leaving Pakistan under pressure early in their innings and needing a strong recovery.

In the third ball of the seventh over, Pakistan faced another setback as Rishad Hossain struck with his very first over. Fakhar Zaman, who was struggling to find rhythm, decided to attack a flighted delivery pitched outside off. Looking to clear the infield with a lofted drive, he mistimed the shot and couldn’t generate the required elevation.

Positioned at wide long-off, Tanzim Hasan Sakib judged the ball perfectly and completed a clean catch, sending Zaman back to the pavilion. It was a crucial breakthrough for Bangladesh as Pakistan’s top order crumbled under pressure. With three wickets already down, Pakistan now found themselves in urgent need of a steady partnership to revive their innings and keep their hopes alive.

Rishad Hossain joins the party for Bangladesh 🙌

Pakistan lose their 3rd wicket.

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Fakhar Zaman’s innings ended prematurely after scoring 13 runs from 20 deliveries, including two boundaries, at a modest strike rate of 65.00. He was caught by Tanzim Hasan Sakib at long-off while attempting an aggressive lofted shot off Rishad Hossain’s bowling, cutting short his knock and adding to Pakistan’s batting woes early in the chase.

Pakistan and Bangladesh clash in a do-or-die Super Four fixture of Asia Cup 2025 at Dubai. Both teams have been inconsistent to this point and must secure victory here to guarantee their spot in the final. Pakistan kicked off their Super Four campaign with yet another disappointing defeat to India. They recovered with a solid victory over Sri Lanka and now need to beat Bangladesh to book their place in the final. 

On the other hand, Bangladesh have appeared disciplined and organized throughout this Asia Cup campaign. They reached the Super Fours by winning two from three matches, and then maintained that form by defeating Sri Lanka by four wickets in their first game of the second phase.

PAK vs BAN Match Details

Date: 25th September, 2025

Time: 8:00 PM IST

Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium 

Live Streaming: Fancode  

PAK vs BAN Weather Report

There are no signs of any rain interruptions throughout the game. It is pleasant conditions and perfect throughout the game.

Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: IND vs BAN Today Match Prediction– Super Four, Match 4, Who will win today?

Top Batters PAK vs BAN

• Saif Hassan (BAN) - 160 runs in this tournament 

• Sahibzada Farhan (PAK) - 156 runs in this tournament 

• Fakhar Zaman (PAK) - 122 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowler PAK vs BAN

• Mustafizur Rahman (BAN) - 8 wickets in this tournament 

• Saim Ayub (PAK) - 6 wickets in this tournament 

• Shaheen Afridi (PAK) - 6 wickets in this tournament 

PAK vs BAN Recent Performance

PAK vs BAN Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1- If IND bats first

• First Innings score prediction - PAK is expected to score 170-180 runs

• Result prediction- PAK will win the match by 20-30 runs

Scenario 2- If the BAN bats first

• First Innings score prediction- BAN is expected to score 140-160 runs.

• Result prediction- PAK will win the match by 5 wickets 

PAK vs BAN Predicted Playing XI

Pakistan (PAK) Playing XI 

Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha(c), Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris(w), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

Bangladesh (BAN) Playing XI 

Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali(w/c), Mohammad Saifuddin, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman

PAK vs BAN Complete Squad

Pakistan - 

Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufyan Moqim.

Bangladesh -

Litton Das (c), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hassan, Tawhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali Anik, Shamim Hossain, Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, and Shoriful Islam, Shaif Uddin.

PAK vs BAN Today Match Prediction, Who Will Win the Match?

Pakistan to win

We predict that Pakistan will win this Asia Cup 2025 match. Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub will be key players to watch out for.

The Pakistan team will be under pressure heading into this game. They lost to India in the last game by 6 wickets despite a strong show with the bat. The bowling attack struggled to contain the Indians and threw away the game. They failed to defend the target of 172 runs. 

On the other hand, it is a must-win game for the Sri Lankan team. The Sri Lankan skipper will be upset with the 4-wicket loss against Bangladesh in the last game. They failed to defend the target of 169 runs. 

PAK vs SL Match Details

Date: 23rd September, 2025

Time: 8:00 PM IST

Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi 

Live Streaming: Fancode  

PAK vs SL Weather Report

There are no signs of any rain interruptions throughout the game. It is pleasant conditions and perfect throughout the game.

Also Read: Pakistan Women vs South Africa Women ODI: PK-W vs SA-W Prediction– 3rd ODI Match, Who will win today?

Top Batters PAK vs SL

• Pathum Nissanka (SL) - 146 runs in this tournament 

• Sahibzada Farhan (PAK) - 132 runs in this tournament 

• Kusal Mendis (SL) - 122 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowler PAK vs SL

• Nuwan Thushara (SL) - 6 wickets in this tournament 

• Saim Ayub (PAK) - 6 wickets in this tournament 

• Wanindu Hasaranga (SL) - 5 wickets in this tournament 

PAK vs SL Recent Performance

PAK vs SL Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1- If SL bats first

• First Innings score prediction- SL is expected to score 170-180 runs

• Result prediction- SL will win the match by 20-30 runs

Scenario 2- If the PAK bats first

• First Innings score prediction- PAK is expected to score 145-165 runs.

• Result prediction- SL will win the match by 3 wickets 

PAK vs SL Predicted Playing XI

Sri Lanka (SL) Playing XI 

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara.

Pakistan (PAK) Playing XI 

Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed

PAK vs SL Complete Squad

Sri Lanka - 

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Janith Liyanage.

Pakistan -

Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufyan Moqim.

PAK vs SL Today Match Prediction, Who Will Win the Match?

Sri Lanka to win

We predict that Sri Lanka will win this Asia Cup 2025 match. Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Wanindu Hasaranga will be key players to watch out for.

Pakistan will face Sri Lanka for the first time in the Asia Cup 2025. Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka lost their first matches in the Super Four group. Both teams need to win today's match to keep their hopes of reaching the final alive. This match will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, at 8:00 PM. In this article, we will explore PAK vs SL playing 11, pitch reports, and key players' stats.

PAK vs SL Super-4, Match 3 Match Details:

Pakistan's Team Preview:

Pakistan has lost its first Super Four match against India and will have to win both its upcoming matches to reach in the final. They lost their last game against India by 6 wickets. In this match, Pakistan’s star opener Sahibzada Farhan provided a quick start, scoring 58 runs on 45 balls, while Saim Ayub, Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf supported well and put up a total of 171 runs, but they could not defend it.

In the bowling section, Haris Rauf bowled well and picked up 2 wickets while Faheem Ashraf and Abrar Ahmed took 1 wicket each.

Pakistan's Key players:

Sri Lanka Team Preview: 

Sri Lanka has also lost its first match of the Super Four against Bangladesh, and they are under immense pressure to win this match. The hopes of both teams to reach the finals will almost end with a defeat in today's match. Sri Lanka lost its last game against Bangladesh by 4 wickets.

In this match, all-rounder Dasun Shanaka played an explosive inning of 64 runs on 37 balls. Before that, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis provided a good start, scoring 22 and 34 runs respectively. In the bowling department, Wanindu Hasaranga and Dasun Shanaka impressed with the ball and took 2 wickets each.

Sri Lanka’s Key Players: 

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Super-4, Match 3 Probable Playing XI

Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Agha Salman, Mohammad Haris (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara

Scoring pattern at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi:

The pitches in Abu Dhabi are generally balanced, offering equal opportunities to both batsmen and bowlers. Spin bowlers also have some assistance, especially in the middle overs. The last match played at this venue was between India and Oman, and the Indian team posted 188 runs; in reply, Oman managed to reach 167 runs, highlighting a good surface for batters.

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Super-4, Match 3, Expert Opinion and Match Prediction:

Sri Lanka is expected to win this game. Sri Lanka won all three group matches and topped the Group B point table. However, they suffered defeat in a nail-biting contest against Bangladesh, but Sri Lanka's overall performance so far is good compared to the Pakistan team.

Pakistan's middle-order batsmen's inconsistency is their major concern. If Sri Lankan openers tackle the initial overs of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, they can post a good total, and their experienced bowling attack can restrict Pakistan. 

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Asia Cup 2025 Squad

Pakistan Squad: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Agha Salman, Mohammad Haris (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Hasan Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Wasim, Salman Mirza

Sri Lanka Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Chamika Karunaratne, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando, Janith Liyanage

FAQ: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 

When will the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Super-4, Match 3 be played?

This match will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, at 8:00 PM (IST).

What is the importance of this match in the Super-4 stage?

This clash is crucial as it could decide who secures a spot in the Asia Cup 2025 final.

Which players could make the biggest impact in PAK vs SL Super-4, Match 3?

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Fakhar Zaman and Sahibzada Farhan

The high-voltage India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 brought its share of drama, with a controversial dismissal coming as early as the third over. Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman was declared out after edging behind, a decision that left him visibly frustrated. On his way back to the pavilion, Fakhar showed his displeasure, and the debate immediately caught fire.

Several Pakistani experts came to his defense, arguing that the umpire had rushed into the decision and that the dismissal was questionable. The incident added to the intensity of the already heated rivalry, with many fans believing Fakhar had been hard done by. His visible dissent further fueled the controversy, keeping the moment in the spotlight.

However, fresh evidence later clarified the situation. Replays confirmed that India wicketkeeper Sanju Samson had taken a clean catch, validating the umpire’s call. The review put an end to the debate, proving Fakhar’s dismissal was indeed correct.

See Also: ‘I don't care about that….’- Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan opens up on gun gesture celebration against India

Fresh Evidence Clarifies the Situation of Fakhar Zaman’s Dismissal:

The moment unfolded on the third delivery of the third over after Pakistan was asked to bat first in the Super Four encounter at the Dubai International Stadium. Fakhar Zaman attempted an offside shot against Hardik Pandya’s off-cutter but managed only a faint edge. The ball carried low towards Sanju Samson, who dived and claimed the catch cleanly.

With the ball appearing very close to the ground, the on-field umpires chose to send the decision upstairs. The third umpire examined the footage from several angles before confirming the catch was legitimate. Fakhar was declared out, a call that left him stunned, and he walked back slowly to the dressing room, visibly disappointed with the outcome.

Who don't see finger behind the ball stop watching cricket .#INDvsPAK #PAKvIND pic.twitter.com/BCFojCI258

— Andy Pycroft 👽 (@Rahu_Ketu_12) September 21, 2025

Former Pakistan greats Shoaib Akhtar and Misbah-ul-Haq openly questioned Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal. Akhtar challenged the ICC to release all 26 camera angles, while Misbah felt the umpire had been too quick in making his decision. Both argued the ball touched the ground before being collected.

However, newly shared footage on social media provided clarity. A zoomed-in angle confirmed that Sanju Samson’s gloves were firmly under the ball when it was taken, leaving no doubt about the legitimacy of the catch. The clip supported the third umpire’s judgment, silencing the debate and proving the dismissal was indeed fair and accurate.

Salman Ali Agha Challenges Umpire’s Controversial Call:

Earlier, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha raised concerns over Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal, questioning whether the catch was legitimate. He argued that the decision disrupted Pakistan’s early momentum, expressing his disagreement with the on-field call and highlighting the impact it had on the team’s start in the crucial Super Four match.

He said, “ I don't know about the decision. It's obviously the umpire's job. Umpires can make mistakes. And I have no problem with that. But it does look like it bounced before it was carried to the keeper.”

He added, “ But I might be wrong. I don't know. You can say the way he was batting, if he batted throughout the powerplay, we probably would have scored 190. But yeah, that's the umpire's call. And they can make mistakes. I don't know. To me, it bounced before it reached the keeper.”

The Asia Cup 2025 has been full of controversies, and what was supposed to be an exciting cricket tournament has become messy, mostly because of Pakistan cricket. After the handshake issue with India, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now filed another complaint with the ICC.

This new complaint is about Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal in the Super 4 match against India. Fakhar had scored 15 off 9 balls when he edged a delivery from Hardik Pandya. Wicketkeeper Sanju Samson went low and caught the ball, but the catch became controversial. The third umpire, Sri Lankan Ruchira Palliyaguruge, gave the decision in India’s favour, saying Samson had his gloves under the ball.

Fakhar Zaman was unhappy with the call, and as per Geo News, PCB has officially complained to the ICC. This adds to the series of issues Pakistan has raised during the tournament, keeping the spotlight away from cricket.

PCB’s complaint history in Asia Cup 2025

This is not the first time Pakistan has raised issues during the Asia Cup. Earlier, in the group stage match against India, the Suryakumar Yadav-led side did not shake hands with the Pakistani players. This angered the PCB, who then filed a complaint against the match referee for failing to enforce the Code of Conduct. However, the ICC rejected their plea, after which the PCB even threatened to boycott the UAE clash before eventually reversing their decision.

See Also: Star International player to come out of retirement: Know who he is

Given the past instances, PCB’s latest complaint regarding Fakhar’s dismissal is also expected to be turned down. While umpiring decisions can spark debate, the officials follow technology and rules, and the ICC is unlikely to overturn the outcome of the match.

Since India’s six-wicket victory during the Asia Cup 2025 clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium for the Super 4 clash, the controversy has been around the dismissal of Fakhar Zaman, the left-handed opening batter, who got an outside edge into the hands of wicket-keeper, Sanju Samson, of Hardik Pandya’s bowling. 

On the third ball of the third over, Fakhar Zaman went forward to the slower ball of Pandya and got an outside edge, to which Samson jumped forward and collected the ball. The umpire viewed from various angles and at the end gave it out. The batter and the Pakistan players, along with their fans and former players, were not happy with the decision. The former Indian opening batter, Aakash Chopra, shed light on the matter.

See Also: 'Salman doesn't know...'- Shoaib Akhtar furious with Pakistan's captain after six-wicket defeat to India in Super 4 stage of Asia Cup 2025

“The problem is that it’s a 3D sport conveyed in 2D. So, it’s almost impossible to know anything about these low catches. From one angle, it looked as if it may have bounced earlier. From another angle, it looked like it bounced off the tip of his little finger and then got into the gloves. Impossible for anybody to actually know.” Chopra expressed during an interaction on ESPNcricinfo.

Aakash Chopra discusses whether Fakhar Zaman was out in IND vs PAK clash of Asia Cup 2025

Chopra feels that the third umpire would be needed to give much more application in these controversial decisions. From different angles, the result looked different. On one hand, the Indian fans felt that the ball dipped easily inside the gloves, while the Pakistan fans were not convinced of the catch.

“So you can argue for both sides. Pakistanis will be well within their rights to feel, OH, this was not out. And Indians should be like, they are well within their rights. It’s quite clear, what’s the fuss about? But this is actually the catch with all the low catches. See, you have to get rid of the umpire’s call completely in terms of these catches.” The former Indian opener addressed.

Was Fakhar Zaman out or not out against India?#TimeOut pic.twitter.com/9K0GNXg1BX

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) September 22, 2025

“We have started going to the third umpire and say, You stay with the third umpire. If it’s inconclusive, the whole DRS system is now going towards whatever the non-field umpire says is correct. In this case, we don’t allow that possibility. We don’t know whether it’s out or not in the eyes of the umpire. I think a bit more onus is on them for low catches. Technology isn’t good enough to tell the truth.” Aakash Chopra concluded.

At the end, it won’t be wrong to say that the right decision has been made. The TV umpire didn’t have enough conclusive evidence to 6overturn the decision. Pakistan posted 171 runs on the board in the first innings thanks to Sahibzada Farhan’s half-century and the 20 unbeaten runs from Faheem Ashraf before India chased down the target easily with six wickets as Abhishek Sharma clubbed a fine half-century along with Shubman Gill’s contribution of over 40 runs.

Hardik Pandya got his man in the second over of the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Super Four Match No. 2. Fakhar Zaman went to push the ball on the offside but got only an edge. Sanju Samson behind the stumps did not make any mistakes. Pakistan lost their first wicket of the night. 

India captain Suryakumar Yadav again trusted his experienced pace bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya with the new ball. Earlier in the tournament, he did not get the desired result, but in the high time of the contest, he found his rhythm. From the very first over of today's (September 21) match, he was looking in good form with the new ball. In the first over of the match, Pandya could have gotten the wicket of Sahibzada Farhan if Abhishek Sharma had not put down an easy catch. 

Pandya did not have to wait too long to get his first wicket of the high-voltage clash. He got his man in the form of Fakhar Zaman. Zaman, during the initial stage of the match, was the batter who collected most of the runs for the Pakistan cricket team. When he lost his wicket, he was able to collect only 15 runs against 9 deliveries with three boundaries. 

Read More: [WATCH] IND vs PAK, Asia Cup 2025, Super Four: Abhishek Sharma drops routine catch, Hardik Pandya in disbelief

A feather touch did the damage

On the third ball of the third over of the match, Pandya delivered the ball on the line of the stumps, but with a hint of outswing for the left-handed batter. Zaman tried to push the ball with a straight bat but got an outside edge. The touch was so light between the ball and the bat that the batter had to wait for the confirmation from the third umpire. 

Sanju Samson, who already showed his form with the bat, has been doing the glove work precisely. His eyes were locked on the ball, and he allowed it to come into the gloves. A swift dismissal was accomplished by the Pandya-Samson duo. 

Watch the wicket here

Wickets ka 𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐊 swaagat, yet again 🤩

Hardik Pandya nicks one off Fakhar Zaman 🔥

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