The opening T20I between Pakistan and Australia at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium had plenty to offer on the cricketing front, but it was an unusual DRS episode involving Babar Azam and the third umpire that truly set social media buzzing on Thursday night.
What should have been a routine LBW review in the 14th over instead descended into what fans quickly labelled “comedy scenes”, with third umpire Nasir Hussain appearing visibly confused as technology delivered a clear verdict.
The moment came on the fifth ball of the 14th over when Babar attempted a reverse sweep against Adam Zampa and missed. Australia went up with a loud LBW appeal, which was turned down on the field. Travis Head immediately opted for the review, a decision that would prove spot-on.
Umpire clearly heard saying “outside leg”
As replays rolled in, confusion reigned. Despite Babar clearly switching his stance for the reverse sweep, the third umpire was heard suggesting the ball had pitched “outside leg”, seemingly overlooking the fact that the Pakistan batter was momentarily batting left-handed. The situation grew stranger when ball-tracking flashed “three reds” on the giant screen, indicating the delivery was hitting the stumps.
Even then, the review dragged on. Multiple angles were replayed as the third umpire appeared uncertain about the call, leaving players and commentators alike bemused. Babar, reading the writing on the screen, began his walk back to the pavilion before the official verdict was announced- an image that only added fuel to the online firestorm.
Clips of the episode quickly went viral, with fans mocking both the delay and the umpire’s on-air explanations. “Comedy scenes,” wrote one user. Some users mocked the umpire’s English speaking skills.
Pakistan beat Australia in 1st T20I, Saim Ayub bags Player of the Match
Lost amid the chaos was a solid performance from Pakistan, who went on to claim a comfortable 22-run win and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Saim Ayub starred with a brisk 40 at the top of the order and later chipped in with two crucial wickets as Australia fell short in the chase. The Men in Green posted 168/8 before reducing the opposition for 146/8. Saim Ayub bagged the Player of the Match.