DUBAI: Controversy erupted in the Asia Cup 2025 final when Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav appealed for obstructing the field against Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha, sparking anger among fans. The appeal came after a throw struck Salman as he returned for a second run during Pakistan’s innings at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
The incident began when Salman drove a delivery through extra cover and ran hard with Hussain Talat to complete two runs. As Yadav dived to stop the ball and launched a throw at the stumps, it hit Salman on his way back to the crease. Yadav immediately appealed, claiming the Pakistan captain had interfered with play.
Replays, however, showed Salman kept his focus on the ball and maintained his running line, with no deliberate attempt to obstruct the throw. The third umpire dismissed the appeal swiftly, allowing the match to resume amid heightened tension between the arch-rivals.
On social media, fans criticized Yadav’s decision to appeal, labeling it “unsporting” and “horrendous.” Many argued that Salman was only intent on completing his run and had committed no violation, further fueling the charged atmosphere of the Asia Cup final.