Despite the advancements in technology, some decisions remain as challenging as ever, considering that even cameras have limited range and capabilities. On Day 4 of the Test match between Pakistan and England in Multan, Babar Azam’s side appeared to be on track for an easy victory when top performer Saud Shakeel was ruled out due to a questionable catch by wicketkeeper Ollie Pope.
Pakistan batter Shakeel played a brilliant knock in the second test match against England, but just as it appeared he might lead Pakistan to a series-leveling victory, he was dismissed. His dismissal, though, sparked some debate, with Ollie Pope appearing to take the catch to dismiss him after he gloved it behind the wickets.
The decision was referred to the third umpire, who determined that the batsman was out after reviewing a few replays. With that decision, Shakeel fell six runs short of a well-deserved maiden hundred. Pakistan legend Waqar Younis tweeted about the same and said, ”Wonder which finger Joel Wilson (Tv umpire) saw under the ball. Fingers were pointing downward when the ball hit the turf #ShockingDecision #ENGvPAK #Multan.”
England sealed the three-match series by 2-0
Pakistan appeared on course to chase down their imposing target of 355 when Shakeel (94) and Mohammad Nawaz (45) moved the hosts to 290-5, only for Wood to swing momentum back England’s way by prising out both set batters just before lunch.
Brief cameos from Agha Salman (20 not out) and debutant Abrar Ahmed (17) kept Pakistan edging towards their victory total, but England‘s pace attack successfully cleaned up the tail to dismiss the hosts for 328.
Robinson, the Player of the Match from last week’s Rawalpindi victory, had been a notable absentee from England’s attack in the second innings but made his presence felt as he took the important wicket of Pakistan skipper Babar Azam in the 4th innings.
England will now be looking to claim a series sweep for the first time in Pakistan, with the third and final Test match beginning in Karachi on Saturday.
