WATCH: Controversial decision halts Pakistan fightback

A controversial decision by third umpire Michael Gough led to the departure of Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, just as the 27-year-old was building momentum for his side after a sudden collapse in the first Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Thursday.

The Men in Green, after a wicketless first session, collapsed from a strong position of 75 for no loss to 94/5. Rizwan then came out swinging and moved to a breezy 37-run innings off 34 deliveries before edging fast-bowler Pat Cummins to the Aussie captain Tim Paine behind the stumps.

It doesn't come any closer than that!

This was judged a legal delivery! #closematters@Gillette | #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/Dtl2fCo2if

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 21, 2019

The umpires referred the decision to the third umpire, as replays showed that Cummins had overstepped the popping crease in his delivery stride. Gough, surprisingly, stuck with the original decision to the astonishment of the commentators and the fans alike.

The decision halted Pakistan’s fightback in its track and exposed the tailenders to Australia’s bowling attack which was firing in all cylinders.

@ShaneWarne "I’m feeling for Pakistan there, I think they were robbed."@gilly381 "I cannot for the life of me see any of it (behind the line).@BrettLee_58 "I'm not buying that."

— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) November 21, 2019

Strange decision, Mohammad Rizwan given out - Replays show that it should have been a no-ball. No portion of his foot was behind the line but the third umpire rules that it's a fair delivery #AUSvPAK #Cricket pic.twitter.com/xHfVmYT7Ds

— Saj Sadiq (@Saj_PakPassion) November 21, 2019

Strange decision - Mohammad Rizwan is out caught behind even though it looks like a clear no-ball. Pakistan 144/6 #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/DlQEw70uuv

— PakPassion.net (@PakPassion) November 21, 2019