Former Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram lashed out at Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav for his appeal against his Pakistan counterpart during the Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan at the Dubai International
Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Even as a commentator, Wasim Akram could not remain neutral.
Asia Cup 2025 Final: India Vs Pakistan – Live Score
Why Did Wasim Akram Get Angry On SKY?
The incident took place in the 16th over of Pakistan’s innings. Axar Patel bowled a full delivery outside off stump, which Salman Ali Agha played towards extra cover. Yadav dived to stop the ball, partially succeeded, and quickly gathered it before throwing it back at the stumps. In the process, the ball struck the Pakistan skipper, who was attempting to return to his crease. Suryakumar immediately appealed for “obstructing the field,” prompting the umpires to consult the third umpire. After multiple replays, it was determined that there was no deliberate obstruction, and the batter was declared safe.
While on commentary, Akram expressed his displeasure, remarking that the appeal made no sense and even questioned SKY’s sportsmanship spirit.
“Where is sportsman spirit. Made no sense to appeal,” Akram questioned the Indian captain on air.
His fellow commentator Sanjay Manjrekar shared similar sentiments, suggesting the appeal was unnecessary since the obstruction was clearly unintentional.
What Do The Rules Say?
According to MCC’s Law 37, which covers “Obstructing the Field,” a batter is only out if the obstruction is intentional – done deliberately to distract or prevent the fielding side from making a play. Accidental contact, or obstruction made while avoiding injury, does not qualify as an offence.
Pakistan 146 All Out
In the end, Indian bowlers dismissed Pakistan for a modest total of 146. Kuldeep Yadav was the star performer, with excellent figures of 4/30 in his four overs. Varun Chakaravarthy (2/30), Axar Patel (2/26), and Jasprit Bumrah (2/25) also contributed significantly after India chose to bowl first.
Pakistan started strong, with openers Sahibzada Farhan (57 off 38 balls) and Fakhar Zaman (46 off 35 balls) putting together 84 runs in under 10 overs, setting the stage for a large score.
However, the Indian spin trio of Varun, Kuldeep, and Axar quickly took a series of wickets, tightening their grip on Pakistan’s innings.
(With inputs from Agencies)
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