The Asia Cup 2025 has already produced its share of controversies, but the Pakistan vs UAE clash added an unusual twist. An umpire had to walk off the field after being struck on the head by a throw, a rare moment that quickly turned into viral banter online.
The Incident on Field
It happened in the 6th over of UAE’s chase when Dhruv Parashar pushed a delivery from Saim Ayub and ran for a single. The fielder aimed at the non-striker’s end but missed the stumps completely, instead hitting umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge on the back of his head. Looking shaken, he received immediate medical attention before walking off. Reserve umpire Gazi Sohel stepped in to continue the match.
Commentary Sparked the Virality
What could have been just a concerning injury soon became a trending moment, thanks to Wasim Akram’s commentary. His remark “Straight on the head of the umpire, what a throw! Bullseye” was instantly picked up by fans. The clip went viral, especially since Palliyaguruge had earlier given multiple LBW decisions against Pakistan in the tournament. Social media quickly labelled it “revenge by mistake.”
Indian Fans Take Over Troll Battle
Indian fans didn’t miss the opportunity to poke fun. Memes and comments flooded social platforms, calling it a “rare umpire retired hurt” moment and joking about Pakistan’s misfortune with match officials. The humour was sharp, with many pointing out that this wasn’t Pakistan’s first run-in with controversy over officials in this Asia Cup.
Pakistan’s Off-Field Drama Continues
Earlier in the tournament, Pakistan had threatened to boycott a game due to referee Andy Pycroft, only returning after an apology. Now with an umpire injured in their game, the narrative of Pakistan’s “bad luck with officials” has only grown stronger. With a crucial clash against India up next, the team will hope the spotlight shifts back to cricket rather than side dramas.
A Pakistani fielder hit the umpire on the head with the ball and Wasim Akram said “What a throw bull’s eye.”
This is the mentality of every Pakistani. Disgusting.https://t.co/Ud3Knt4oii
— ADITYA (@Wxtreme10) September 17, 2025
