Controversy erupted during the India versus Pakistan Women's World Cup 2025 clash in Colombo on Sunday (October 5) after Muneeba Ali was given run-out in a dramatic fashion by the third umpire.

While facing Kranti Gaud in the fourth over of the chase, Muneeba was hit on the pads and the Indian players went for a big LBW appeal. Since wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh wasn’t convinced, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur didn’t opt for a review.

During this time, the Pakistan opener was out of her crease and slowly made her way back. She was able to ground the bat at first, but as the ball hit the stumps, the willow was raised and her feet were out of the crease.

TV umpire Kerrin Klaaste had initially decided to go with the not out decision. However, Klaaste looked at the visuals once again and found that Muneeba’s bat was in the air once the ball hit the stumps. This prompted her change the decision and the Pakistan batter was asked to walk back to the pavilion.

The call by the third umpire left Pakistan captain Fatima Sana furious. She came out of the dressing room to protest the decision with the fourth umpire. Fatima was seen in an animated chat with the official as Muneeba was near the boundary line. The entire Pakistan camp was shocked with the decision.

After the game, Pakistan pacer Diana Baig addressed a press conference, where she was asked about the incident by a reporter. Baig downplayed it, saying whatever the issue was, it has been settled.

“Muneeba was run out, and the captain also raised some concerns regarding that incident. Has the management made any decision on this matter? Any comment on Muneeba's run-out?” the reporters asked.

In reply, Baig said: “Muneeba's run-out issue has already been settled, I believe. I don't want to talk much about it now. Whatever happened and whatever the situation was, I think it has been resolved.”

When the incident took place, former Australian cricketer Mel Jones read out the MCC rule on air as she explained why Muneeba was given out.

"Law of cricket 30.1.2." 'A batter shall not be considered to be out of her ground in running or diving towards her ground and beyond, and having grounded some part of her bat, the bat beyond the popping crease, there is subsequent loss of contact between the ground and any part of her person or bat, or between the bat and the person,'" she said on air.

"So, she wasn't running, she wasn't diving. And so, because of that fact, there was no running or diving; that is the reason why she's been given out," Jones added.

As for the match, India registered a crushing 88-run victory over Pakistan and jumped to top of standings. The Women in Green were bowled out for 159 in 43 overs while chasing the target of 248.

(With NDTV Inputs)