Controversy erupts over DRS decision in Afghanistan A vs India A clash at Emerging Teams Asia Cup

There was a controversial moment during the semifinal of the Emerging Teams Asia Cup between India A and Afghanistan A. Both sides locked horns in the second knockout clash at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground of Oman Cricket (Ministry Turf 1) on Friday, October 25. 

The moment happened during the dismissal of Zubaidullah Akbari. Opting to bat first, Afghanistan A got off to a great start to the game as their openers put in an excellent performance. Akbari scored 64 runs in 41 deliveries. However, the moment happened when Akbari nicked a delivery from Aaqib Khan, which landed in the hands of wicketkeeper, Prabhsimran Singh. 

After the delivery and the appeal, the on-field umpire’s initial decision was not out. Seeing the decision, India A players lodged a strong protest. It is worth noting that no DRS was available in the clash, so the India A players could not challenge the umpire’s decision.

Also Watch: Mohammad Nabi celebrates Afghanistan A's semi-final win over India A during Emerging Asia Cup

However, amidst the chaos and the protest by the India A players, the umpires had a discussion and ultimately referred it to the third umpire. However, the third umpire adjudged Akbari as dismissed, which caused tension in the Afghanistan A camp. Akbari argued with the umpire over the referral of the decision without the availability of the DRS. Afghanistan A’s coach even signalled the batter to stay put at the crease, but Akbari had to eventually walk back to the pavilion.

Check out the viral moment of the game here:

Afghanistan A to take on Sri Lanka A in the final 

In the first innings of the game, after an exceptional performance with the bat, Afghanistan A managed to post a total of 206 runs in the first innings and just lost four wickets in the process. Sediqullah Atal was the highest run-getter with 83 runs in 52 deliveries. Karim Janat added 41 runs on the board as well. 

As India A came out to chase the target, the side’s top order failed to go big. Ramandeep Singh was the highest wicket-taker for the side with 64 runs to his name as India A only scored 186 runs in response and lost the game by 20 runs. As a result, Afghanistan A progressed through to the final of the Emerging Teams Asia Cup, and the side will take on Sri Lanka A for the title, on Monday, October 27.