The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has lodged a formal complaint with match referee Andy Pycroft, demanding strict disciplinary action against Pakistan players Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan following their controversial gestures during the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash at the Dubai International Stadium.
According to reports, the BCCI has also submitted video proof highlighting the players’ actions, which were deemed provocative and against the spirit of cricket. Haris Rauf, in particular, made repeated gestures in reaction to the loud “Kohli, Kohli” chants from Indian supporters. He was seen mimicking a fighter jet near the boundary line and flashing a “6-0” signal after dismissing Sanju Samson, a reference linked to false propaganda about Indian Air Force aircraft losses.
Meanwhile, opener Sahibzada Farhan drew criticism after celebrating his fifty with a gun-firing gesture, which the Indian board has described as indecent behaviour on the field. The complaint also cites Rauf’s heated interactions with Indian batters Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill during their partnership as further misconduct.
A senior BCCI official stated that such behaviour does not align with the spirit of the game and insisted that strong action is necessary. The complaint, along with attached video footage, was formally sent to match referee Andy Pycroft.
On the other hand, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has chosen not to comment on the matter publicly. Ahead of Pakistan’s next fixture against Bangladesh, pacer Shaheen Afridi was asked about the incidents but deflected by saying: “Our focus is on playing cricket and winning the Asia Cup for Pakistan. People can think what they want, but we are here to deliver.”
The gestures have sparked widespread debate and outrage among fans and experts alike, with many calling for tougher regulations to prevent such actions in future international matches.
