Out or not out? Massive debate around Sanju Samson's catch: Former cricketers jump in

The Asia Cup Super Four encounter between India and Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday witnessed a controversial moment when Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal resulted in divided opinions.

Sent in to open alongside Sahibzada Farhan after India chose to bowl, Fakhar started briskly, racing to 15 off nine balls with three boundaries. He looked to continue his aggressive approach in Hardik Pandya’s second over but edged a ball back to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson.

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Samson dived slightly forward and claimed the catch low to the ground. Fakhar, unconvinced, stood his ground while the umpires referred it upstairs. Replays initially left a lot of room for doubt, with the ball appearing close to the turf.

Several fans on social media even claimed that the ball had grazed the turf before it went in to Samson's grasp. Multiple angles were reviewed before the third umpire decided the catch clean. The decision was 'out', leaving Fakhar visibly frustrated as he shook his head on his way back.

The call immediately drew reactions from the commentary box. Former India cricketer Vivek Razdan remarked, “Ungliya nahi dikh rahi aapko? (Can’t you see the fingers?)”, pointing out Samson’s fingers under the ball.

Watch Fakhar Zaman's controversial dismissal here

However, legendary Pakistan pacers questioned the verdict. Wasim Akram was stern in his criticism. “The umpire should have checked more angles. If there is no conclusive evidence, then the benefit of the doubt should go to the batter,” said the 59-year-old.

Waqar Younis expressed similar concerns at the time. “I’m not sure whether the ball carried to Samson. I would want to see another replay,” he said, reflecting the uncertainty many viewers felt.

After the match ended, Pakistan skipper Salman Agha spoke to reporters, and shared his take on the same. He admitted the moment was debatable. “Umpires can make mistakes. To me, it looked like it bounced before it carried. Umpires can also make mistakes. I can be wrong as well,” he told reporters after the match.

Fakhar’s own reaction told its story. Clearly upset, he appeared to mutter something as he left the field, though it remained unclear who it was directed at.

The decision, as controversial as it was, handed India a key early breakthrough, removing one of Pakistan’s most aggressive openers. Hardik Pandya celebrated with his trademark fist pump.

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