BCCI Hits Back, Haris Rauf & Sahibzada Farhan May Face Stern Consequences for Provocative Gestures

The high-intensity India–Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 has taken a serious turn off the field. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially lodged a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against Pakistani players Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan for their behaviour during the Super Four match in Dubai on September 21.

According to reports, the complaint was filed on Wednesday and the ICC has confirmed receiving it. The issue revolves around two separate incidents that sparked strong reactions from both fans and officials.

Sahibzada Farhan, after reaching his half-century, performed a gun-style celebration that quickly drew criticism for being provocative in a sensitive rivalry. Later in the same game, Haris Rauf became the center of controversy when he responded to chants of “Kohli, Kohli” from Indian supporters by mimicking the downing of an aircraft. The gesture was interpreted as mocking India’s military history, further intensifying the backlash.

Haris Rauf’s actions did not stop there. He also had heated exchange with Indian openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, who had given India a fiery start while chasing down Pakistan’s total of 172 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

The ICC’s code of conduct allows for disciplinary action in such situations. If the players deny the allegations in writing, a formal hearing will be held and both Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan may have to appear before ICC Elite Panel Referee Richie Richardson. Possible sanctions could follow if their explanations fail to satisfy the governing body.

Sahibzada Farhan, however, defended his celebration after the match, saying it was unplanned and simply came to him in the moment. He added that he believed in playing with intensity against any opponent, not just India.

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