PCB Files Another Complaint to ICC Over Sanju Samson’s Controversial Catch in Asia Cup 2025
- The Asia Cup 2025 continues to face controversy, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) filing yet another complaint to the ICC.
- The latest protest involves Sanju Samson’s low catch to dismiss Fakhar Zaman during the Super 4 clash between India and Pakistan.
- PCB had earlier lodged a complaint over India’s “no handshake” saga, which was rejected by the ICC.
- Reports suggest this new complaint may also be dismissed, as umpires’ on-field decisions are deemed final.
The Asia Cup 2025, which was expected to showcase thrilling cricket and sportsmanship, has instead been dominated by controversies, many of which involve the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Just days after the infamous handshake row with India, PCB has once again approached the International Cricket Council (ICC) — this time over the controversial dismissal of Fakhar Zaman.
The Fakhar Zaman–Sanju Samson Catch Controversy
The incident occurred during the high-voltage India vs Pakistan Super 4 clash in Dubai. Chasing a stiff target, Fakhar Zaman had made a brisk start, scoring 15 off 9 deliveries, before falling victim to a contentious decision.
Facing Hardik Pandya, Zaman nicked a delivery that was collected by Indian wicketkeeper Sanju Samson, who dived low and claimed the catch inches above the turf. The on-field umpires referred it upstairs, where third umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge adjudged the catch as clean, ruling the Pakistani opener out.
While the replay angles suggested the ball was close to touching the ground, the third umpire felt Samson had the gloves firmly under the ball. The decision left Zaman visibly upset, and the PCB has now lodged an official complaint, questioning the validity of the catch.
PCB’s String of Complaints
This marks the second time in the tournament that PCB has escalated matters to the ICC. Earlier, Pakistan had objected to India’s refusal to shake hands after their group-stage clash, calling it a violation of the “spirit of cricket.” They even demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, though the ICC dismissed their protest.
The “handshake saga” already drew heavy criticism from cricket pundits and fans, many accusing PCB of overreacting. With the new complaint regarding Samson’s catch, the board finds itself once again at the center of unwanted attention.
Likely Outcome of Complaint
According to cricket laws, the third umpire’s decision is final, and unless there is clear evidence of error or misinterpretation, such complaints rarely hold ground. Several reports suggest that PCB’s latest plea could also be rejected, just like their earlier protest.
While umpiring errors are a part of the game, experts argue that Pakistan’s constant complaints risk overshadowing the cricket itself. Former players have urged both boards to move on from off-field drama and let the focus return to the players’ performances.
PCB Drama Overshadows Asia Cup 2025
What was supposed to be a tournament celebrating cricket in the UAE has instead turned into a series of controversies — from political undertones before the India-Pakistan games to heated exchanges on and off the field. Fans on social media have already started mocking PCB for “crying wolf,” suggesting the team should focus more on improving performances rather than filing protests.
With crucial Super 4 matches against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh still to come, Pakistan will need to put the off-field chaos behind them if they are to secure a spot in the Asia Cup 2025 final.
