WATCH: Babar Azam's Controversial Dismissal Sparks Umpiring Row In Pakistan's Domestic Cricket

English NewsSportsCricketWATCH: Babar Azam's Controversial Dismissal Sparks Umpiring Row In Pakistan's Domestic Cricket

Written By : Prateek Thakur | Updated at : 04 Nov 2026 05:31 PM (IST)

Pakistan captain Babar Azam controversially given out caught-behind in Quaid-e-Azam Trophy.

Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroom

Pakistan captain Babar Azam's return to the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy became a talking point for an unexpected reason after a disputed umpiring decision cut short his innings for Lahore Whites. A video of the dismissal has circulated online, with viewers questioning whether the batter was wrongly given out.

Babar was batting on 28 after facing around 40 deliveries when FATA pacer Afaq Afridi appealed for a caught-behind dismissal. The umpire raised his finger, sending the Pakistan star back to the pavilion.

However, replays of the incident appeared to show the delivery making contact with Babar's thigh pad rather than his bat. The footage prompted debate over the decision, although the available video alone does not establish conclusively what the umpire saw in real time.

The absence of the Decision Review System in the domestic competition meant Babar had no opportunity to challenge the on-field call. The incident has consequently brought renewed attention to the use of technology and the standard of umpiring in Pakistan's first-class cricket.

The level of umpiring in Pakistan's domestic cricket is hilarious. - There should be at least DRS available in Pakistan's premier first class tournament. https://t.co/zE7g3TJ2XE

The dismissal took place during Lahore Whites' match against FATA at the Diamond Cricket Ground in Islamabad. Babar's return to the competition had attracted considerable attention, but his innings ended before he could make a substantial contribution with the bat.

The video has fuelled discussion among cricket followers, particularly over whether domestic matches should have access to a review system. Without DRS, players have to accept the umpire's decision, even when television replays subsequently raise questions about it.

While Babar's dismissal dominated the online conversation, FATA had reasons to be pleased with their batting effort. Fawad Arshad led the recovery with an unbeaten 91 from 157 deliveries, striking 13 fours.

He shared a 132-run partnership with Rehan Afridi, who contributed 69 off 92 balls, helping FATA recover from a difficult position. The team reached 311/6 in 73 overs at the end of the opening day's play.

Lahore Whites' Hammad Aziz was the standout bowler, taking four wickets for 81 runs. Babar also contributed with the ball, returning figures of 0/16 from seven overs.

The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2026-27 began on November 3, with 20 regional teams competing across the Gold and Silver divisions. The tournament is scheduled to continue through December, providing opportunities for established international players and emerging domestic talent.

Babar Azam was given out caught behind for Lahore Whites, but replays suggested the delivery made contact with his thigh pad rather than his bat. This decision sparked significant online debate among viewers.

Babar Azam had no opportunity to challenge the on-field call because the Decision Review System (DRS) is not available in the domestic Quaid-e-Azam Trophy competition.

The incident brought renewed attention to the standard of umpiring and the potential need for technology, such as the Decision Review System, in Pakistan's first-class cricket matches.

FATA's Fawad Arshad led a recovery with an unbeaten 91, supported by Rehan Afridi's 69. They shared a 132-run partnership, helping FATA reach 311/6 by the end of the opening day.

Prateek Thakur is a Copy Editor at ABP Live English, reporting on major sporting events while spotlighting the human stories of athletes that matter.

From the source You can reach out to him at [email protected].

Breaking News, Anytime, Anywhere - Download ABPLIVE on Android and iOS now!