Asia Cup 2025: ICC punishes Haris Rauf for controversial gestures in IND vs PAK, and reprimands Sahibzada Farhan for “gunshot celebration”

The ICC fined experienced Pakistani speedster Haris Rauf 30% of his match money for “abusive language and aggressive gestures” during the Super 4 match against India in the Asia Cup on September 21.

During the tumultuous match, Rauf got into a verbal spat with Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, just as the Indian hitters were on fire against the Pakistan bowlers. While fielding on the boundary line, Indian fans taunted Rauf with chants of “Kohli, Kohli”. The right-arm pacer responded by signalling a plane crash, likely mocking India’s military activities following the Pahalgam attack.

Meanwhile, Sahibzada Farhan, the opening batter, celebrated his 50th birthday in a unique way. He gripped his bat like a rifle, pretending to fire into the sky. Farhan avoided a monetary penalty but was issued a warning.

The hearing was conducted at the Pakistan team hotel by match referee Richie Richardson. Both players were present in person, despite having filed written statements, and were joined by team manager Naveed Akram Cheema.

“Match referee Richie Richardson finished his hearing on Friday afternoon at the team hotel. Hars Rauf has been fined 30% of his match fees for violent behaviour, while Farhan has received a warning, according to a tournament insider who spoke on the condition of anonymity with Hindustan Times.

Previously, Haris Rauf and Farhan pleaded not guilty during their ICC hearing.

On Wednesday, the BCCI filed a formal complaint, accusing the two of making inappropriate gestures. The enmity between the two teams grew after India refused to shake hands with their opponents after defeating them in the Asia Cup group round.

Meanwhile, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has reportedly been advised not to make political statements. This came after Pakistan filed a complaint about his words dedicating the group-stage victory to the Pahalgam terror victims and the Indian Armed Forces. Like Rauf and Farhan, Suryakumar first denied the charge.

It is understood that Richardson dismissed Suryakumar’s not-guilty plea and fined him 30% of his match fee. India has filed an appeal against the ruling.