Subhayan Chakraborty in Dubai
After previously targeting match referee Andy Pycroft, Pakistan have shifted focus from their lacklustre performances in the 2025 Asia Cup by pointing fingers at another official. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have lodged a formal complaint with the ICC against Ruchira Palliyaguruge, who was the TV umpire during the India-Pakistan match at the Dubai International Stadium on September 21. The grievance stems from the dismissal of Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman in the third over, bowled by Hardik Pandya.
Zaman edged the ball to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson, and while the on-field umpire was uncertain about the catch, Palliyaguruge, after reviewing a zoomed-in angle multiple times, ruled Zaman out. Although Zaman appeared skeptical as he left the field, replays suggested the ball had not touched the ground. The PCB argues that the third umpire failed to examine multiple angles and that the benefit of the doubt should have favoured the batter.
Additionally, Pakistan’s team and management continue to ssanju samtir controversy off the field. The PCB’s handling of the media during the 2025 Asia Cup has drawn criticism for apparent bias against Indian journalists. For the second time in the tournament, Pakistan’s media manager, Naeem Gilani, avoided taking questions from Indian presspersons during the post-match conference. Pakistan also skipped two pre-match press conferences – one before their match against the UAE and another prior to the Super Four clash with India.
This behaviour by Pakistan’s media team has fuelled tensions, further straining relations with the Indian media. Adding to the controversy, Gilani faces ICC scrutiny for allegedly recording a meeting between Pakistan’s captain, coaches, and match referee Pycroft in the referee’s room, in violation of the regulations governing the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA).
India have now defeated Pakistan twice in eight days, and both were comprehensive wins for the Men in Blue. While India will take on Bangladesh on September 24 in Dubai, Pakistan are set to clash with Sri Lanka in a must-win game in Abu Dhabi on September 23.
Follow Revsportz for latest sports news