Image: Cricket fans witnessed the hilarious on-field antics of umpire Mohammad Rafi / © CricTracker
In the Asian Legends T20 2025 match between Sri Lankan Lions (SLL) and Afghanistan Pathans (AP), cricket fans witnessed not only intense action but also umpire Mohammad Rafi’s hilarious on-field antics, which stole the show. Held at Madan Paliwal Miraj Sports Centre, Rajasthan, on March 12, SLL secured a 13-run victory, but Rafi’s theatrical gestures, such as a leg-kicking six signal and an exaggerated run-out call, became a viral sensation.
Batting first, SLL posted a competitive total, with Raveen Sayer (35), Leo Fransisco (31 off 19), and Vikum Sanjaya adding crucial runs. AP’s Farman Ahmed (2/16) and Sahejad Phatan (2/46) restricted the middle order, preventing a bigger score. In response, AP captain Asghar Afghan played a valiant knock of 69 off 42 balls, reviving hopes with a 69-run stand alongside Ayaan Khan. However, regular breakthroughs from SLL’s Vikum Sanjaya and Upul Indrasiri derailed the chase, leading to an AP collapse.
While SLL’s win was significant, Rafi’s flamboyant umpiring style made the match unforgettable, drawing comparisons to Billy Bowden’s famous signals. The Asian Legends T20 continues to entertain fans, blending high-quality cricket with unexpected fun moments.