The Punjab Kings’ narrow loss to Delhi Capitals in the recent IPL 2025 match has sparked controversy after a contentious third-umpire decision left fans and team officials fuming.
PBKS co-owner Preity Zinta has openly criticised the decision. She called the mistake "unacceptable" in a league of such a high stature as the IPL. Her frustration stems from a moment in the 15th over of Punjab’s innings when a shot by Shashank Singh appeared to clear the boundary but was awarded only a single.
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Shashank lofted a shot off Mohit Sharma that seemed to sail over the ropes. Karun Nair was fielding at the boundary at that time.
He attempted a catch but immediately signaled that the ball had gone for six. Upon review, the third umpire ruled that Nair’s foot had not touched the rope and concluded that the ball had stayed in play.
What did Preity Zinta say about the umpire's decision?
Preity Zinta expressed her disappointment on social media. She said how such errors can occur amid all the technology available. She also spoke to Karun Nair who said that the ball had crossed the boundary.
"In such a high profile tournament with so much technology at the Third Umpire’s disposal such mistakes are unacceptable & simply shouldn’t happen. I spoke To Karun after the game & he confirmed it was DEFINITELY a 6! I rest my case!" Zinta posted on X.
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PBKS put up 206/8 - thanks to Shreyas Iyer’s 53 and a 44 from Marcus Stoinis. But Delhi chased down the target with six wickets in hand as Sameer Rizvi smashed an unbeaten 58 off 25 and Nair scored 44.