During the Super Four clash between India and Pakistan on September 21, 2025, in the Asia Cup, Pakistani bowlers Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan stole the spotlight. Haris Rauf had inappropriate exchanges with India's opening batsmen, Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, and even made objectionable gestures.
Paksitan's opener Sahibzada Farhan showcased a 'gun celebration' after scoring a half-century in the match. Acting swiftly, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has penalized Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan. According to insiders, the ICC fined Haris Rauf 30% of his match fee. Meanwhile, Sahibzada Farhan only received a reprimand for his 'gun celebration' with no fines imposed.
Meanwhile, the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) filed an official complaint with the ICC against Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan on Wednesday. Reportedly, Rauf mocked Indian fans with a 'crash landing' gesture, and Farhan's celebratory act was also deemed inappropriate by the Indian team. As the excitement builds, Pakistan and India are set to clash in the Asia Cup 2025 finals on Sunday.
During the hearing, Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan defended their actions, pleading innocence. The Pakistani bowler clarified that his '6-0' gesture had no connection to India, while Sahibzada Farhan stated that his 'gun celebration' was not politically motivated. Farhan cited examples of former Indian captains MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, who once used similar gestures during celebrations.
