The Pakistani side was left absolutely frustrated in the first innings of T20I series final against Sri Lanka on Saturday, November 29. This was because a stunning catch by Fakhar Zaman was declared as not out by the third umpire which sparked an on-field disagreement and clear disappointment.
The controversy took place in the 19th over of Sri Lanka’s innings, Shaheen Afridi bowled a slower delivery which aimed at the stumps but Dasun Shanaka tried to flick it away. But the ball took a leading edge and went towards the short third man. Fakhar was present just inside the circle reacted and took the outstanding catch with both hands.
The on-field umpire initially gave out but the decision went upstairs to check if Fakhar’s hands touched the ground. The DRS then showed the his wrist was making a contact with the turf which he complete the dive. A shocked Fakhar was quick to protest the decision, maintaining he had held onto the catch. The Pakistani players were in utter disbelief, standing around as tension emerged on the field.
Angry Fakhar Zaman pic.twitter.com/sETjUARyzs https://t.co/viW4d7x7jf
— FAKHAR💚AMIR💜 IMAD ❤️ (@hahs4221522_) November 29, 2025
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The drama didn’t last long. On the very next delivery, Shaheen produced another deceptive slower ball. Shanaka swung hard and missed completely, as the ball clattered into his leg stump. Shaheen celebrated ferociously, briefly looking across towards the umpire’s box in a pointed reaction, seemingly referring to the previous decision. Some heated words were exchanged in the aftermath as emotions overflowed. Fakhar also gestured towards the TV umpire in continued protest.
Shanaka walked back for 2 off 7 balls, and Pakistan quickly regained control after the contentious moment which briefly overshadowed the final’s closing overs.
