The 2025 Asia Cup has seen the Pakistani cricket team grabbing headlines, more for controversies than performances. Despite stumbling on the way, Pakistan managed to reach the finals. On September 28th (Sunday), they will clash with India at Dubai International Cricket Stadium for the title. India, having defeated Pakistan in both encounters thus far, will aim for a repeat lesson in the finals.
Before the finals, Pakistan's off-field antics have commenced. Initially, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) filed a complaint against India's captain Suryakumar Yadav to the International Cricket Council (ICC). Now, reports reveal that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi wants to personally pay the fine imposed on fast bowler Haris Rauf. This revelation was made by Pakistani news channel, Samaa TV.
Read also: ICC fines Suryakumar Yadav, BCCI challenges the decision
Technically, fines levied by the ICC are directly deducted from a player's match fee. The sum deducted is solely from what the player earns in match fees, irrespective of any third party willing to pay the fine. Although Mohsin Naqvi intends to offer support by covering Haris Rauf's fine, the ICC records it as a deduction from Rauf's match fee. This act may be seen as a gesture of support and symbolism.
The Fine Imposed on Haris Rauf
The ICC penalized Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf 30% of his match fee for abusive language and indiscipline. His inappropriate gestures and confrontations with Indian players during the Super Four clash were frowned upon.
In the same match, Pakistan’s opener Sahibzada Farhan celebrated his half-century with a 'gun gesture', earning him a warning from the ICC. The BCCI deemed Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan's actions inappropriate and filed their complaints with the ICC.
Action on Captain Suryakumar Yadav
Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav dedicated India’s group stage victory over Pakistan to the armed forces, a gesture PCB considered politically charged. Subsequently, the ICC found Yadav guilty of breaching its code of conduct, resulting in a 30% fine of his match fee.
Read also: 'They must break...', Akhtar sends PAK team a message before finals, calls this player a game-changer
The India-Pakistan matches in the 2025 Asia Cup highlighted a riveting blend of sport, politics, and emotions. Emotions ran high amongst teams and fans during both matches. Cricket transcends being just a game, embodying passions and national pride.
