Pakistan secured its spot in the Super Four of the Asia Cup 2025 against the UAE. While the win guaranteed their progression, one incident during the match grabbed attention.
During the sixth over of the second innings, a throw from a fielder struck umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge on the back of his head. Saim Ayub was bowling, and Dhruv Parashar was at the crease. The fielder’s throw to the non-striker’s end went wayward and hit the umpire.
Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram, in the commentary box, reacted immediately, saying, “Straight on the head of the umpire, what a throw! Bullseye! One job of the fielder is not to hit the umpire” His comment sparked debate online, with some fans suggesting a different choice of words could have been used to describe the incident.
Palliyaguruge was checked by medical staff but eventually continued officiating. The match continued without further incident, and Pakistan’s win confirmed their place in the Super Four.
