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Pakistan registered a dramatic one-wicket victory over England in a thrilling ODI encounter, but the result has sparked a major controversy. Shadab Khan's unbeaten 113-run innings helped Pakistan chase down the target of 242 runs despite losing nine wickets.
However, the biggest talking point was not just Shadab's match-winning performance but also a controversial LBW decision in the final stages of the match. England players had started celebrating victory, and Shadab appeared to accept his dismissal. But a surprising DRS review overturned the decision and changed the outcome of the game.
Following this incident, several cricket fans on social media raised questions and accused Pakistan of match-fixing. Here is everything you need to know about the controversial incident.
Pakistan vs England: Shadab Khan's 113-Run Knock Turns Defeat into Victory
England batted first and posted 241 runs in 46.4 overs. Ben Duckett played an excellent innings of 105 runs, while Sam Curran scored 42 runs and Gus Atkinson contributed an unbeaten 36.
For Pakistan, Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered an impressive bowling performance, taking four wickets.
In response, Pakistan struggled against England's bowling attack. The English bowlers kept taking wickets at regular intervals and put Pakistan under immense pressure.
At one stage, Pakistan were struggling at 154/9, and England looked certain to win the match.
However, Shadab Khan produced a remarkable performance under pressure. Batting at number eight, he played an unbeaten knock of 113 runs off 96 balls, including 13 fours and five sixes.
His brilliant innings brought Pakistan back into the contest and kept their hopes of victory alive.
Shadab Khan LBW Controversy: Why Did the Umpire Reverse His Decision?
The biggest controversy of the match took place during the 45th over of Pakistan's innings.
At that moment, Pakistan needed just 21 runs to win, while Shadab Khan was approaching his century. England fast bowler Gus Atkinson delivered a yorker that resulted in a strong LBW appeal.
The on-field umpire raised his finger and declared Shadab out. Shadab appeared to accept the decision, believing that he had been dismissed.
England players started celebrating, and some even approached Shadab to congratulate him on his brilliant innings. Joe Root was also seen coming forward to shake hands with the Pakistani batter.
It appeared that England had secured victory and Pakistan's innings was over.
However, the match took an unexpected turn when the LBW decision went for a DRS review.
Shadab Khan DRS Review: How UltraEdge Saved Pakistan from Defeat
The DRS review completely changed the situation. During the UltraEdge check, technology showed that the ball had touched Shadab's bat before hitting his pad.
As a result, the on-field umpire overturned the LBW decision and declared Shadab not out.
This unexpected decision left England players disappointed, while Pakistan received a crucial lifeline in the final overs.
Shadab made full use of the opportunity, completed his century and continued his brilliant innings. Eventually, Pakistan secured a thrilling one-wicket victory, with Haris Rauf hitting the winning boundary.
Pakistan Match-Fixing Allegations: Why Is Shadab Khan's Wicket Under Debate?
Despite Pakistan's victory, the controversial DRS decision has triggered heated discussions on social media.
Several users questioned why the LBW decision went for review when Shadab was not clearly seen signalling for a DRS review during the television broadcast.
The situation became even more controversial because Shadab appeared to have accepted his dismissal, while England players had already started exchanging handshakes.
These developments led some social media users to raise match-fixing allegations against Pakistan.
However, it is important to note that these are unverified allegations. There is no established evidence or official confirmation proving that the match was fixed.
The DRS decision was based on the UltraEdge result, which showed contact between the bat and ball. Therefore, the controversy surrounding the review should not be treated as proof of match-fixing.
Pakistan Qualify for Tri-Series Final After Third Consecutive Victory
Pakistan's victory over England also confirmed their place in the final of the ODI tri-series featuring Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka.
Pakistan have remained unbeaten in the tournament, recording three consecutive victories to secure qualification.
The final is scheduled to take place on October 31 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Shadab Khan's unbeaten 113-run knock turned a seemingly lost match into a memorable victory. While his performance earned praise, the unusual DRS incident has continued to attract attention and sparked debate among cricket fans.
Also Read: Shadab Khan DRS Drama at 97: Emotional Video Goes Viral
