Audiences have often witnessed batsmen celebrating a failed DRS call against them after surviving a loud shout, or even the fielding side. But during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2021 match between Karachi Kings (KK) and Islamabad United (IU) on February 24, it was the umpire who surprised everyone with a mini celebration.
Pakistan’s renowned umpire Aleem Dar was delighted after his call for not-out remained unchanged despite it being referred to the third umpire. It was the first delivery of the last over in United’s innings when they scored the remaining one run to chase down 197 runs.
Kings’ bowler Waqas Maqsood bowled a yorker as batsman Asif Ali tried to get the final run for the victory. The game was done and dusted right there but Karachi decided to go for a DRS thinking they might get the batsman out LBW.
Replay showed there was a thick inside edge and also the ball had hit the boot well outside off; ruling out the possibility of a dismissal. The on-field umpire Dar was happy after confirmation from the third umpire and celebrated by pumping his fist before signalling the failed DRS. It was a win for Islamabad by 5 wickets.
Later netizens picked up on the celebration and expressed happiness over Dar’s little jubilation move.
Australian comedian Dennis put forward a hilarious suggestion.
‘Pawri Girl’ Dananeer also loved it, like thousands of others.
A netizen jokingly suggested the move was Dar’s way of showing his support for Islamabad United.
Sharing his own video on Twitter, the world famous umpire wrote: “Enjoy life. Life is very small.”
