Hafeez reveals chat with Rizwan after his disputed dismissal

The second Test between Pakistan and Australia was marred by contentious umpiring decisions that sparked controversy during Pakistan’s pursuit of victory on Friday.

The match took a controversial turn during Mohammad Rizwan’s dismissal, leaving the wicketkeeper-batsman visibly stunned. The crucial moment occurred in the 61st over of Pakistan’s second innings when Pat Cummins appealed for a caught behind against Rizwan. Initially dismissed by the on-field umpire, Cummins opted for a review suspecting a possible glove touch by Rizwan.

Upon review, the third umpire analyzed multiple angles and detected a spike as the ball passed the wrist band, leading to a reversal of the on-field decision. However, the hotspot technology failed to display any mark as Rizwan turned away from the ball at the crucial moment.

Hafeez, speaking in the post-match presser, revealed his conversation with Rizwan after the dismissal and emphasized the need for conclusive evidence to overturn on-field umpires’ decisions.

“I spoke to Rizwan, and I believe he is a very honest person. He told me that the ball did not touch anywhere near the gloves, and there should be conclusive evidence to overturn the decision of the on-field umpire. Based on what I know, the umpire gave it not out, and there was no conclusive evidence for the decision to be overturned. I don’t know what more to say. In this instance, the technology turned out to be a curse rather than something helpful,” Hafeez said.

It is worth noting that Australia clinched the win by dismissing the visitors for 237 runs in their second innings, leaving Pakistan falling short of the 317-run target set by the hosts.