Rauf-Farhan's Gesture (Source: @KarachiTimes123/x.com, @subhasisc1/x.com)
Even after days have passed after the last edition of the India-Pakistan clash but the drama continues. The cricket may be over, but the spotlight lingers on Pakistan players’ questionable on-field behavior that sparked debates over the spirit of the game.
Amidst all, Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan’s behavior grabbed the attention. In a bold move, the BCCI has officially complained about the Pakistani duo, intensifying the controversy.
Rauf and Farhan's questionable on-field antics
Despite being the closest neighbors, India and Pakistan’s rivalry entertained the cricket world for years, and after the recent cross-border tension, the relationship is more strained. Both rivals have already met twice in the ongoing Asia Cup, but the recent Super Four clash between them ignited drama as the Pakistani players crossed the benchmark of the spirit of the game.
While fielding at the boundary line, Pakistani bowler Haris Rauf’s gesture grabbed the attention. After picking up Samson, he showcased a 6-0 gesture with his hand, which indicates Pakistan’s unverified claim of shooting down India’s six fighter jets during Operation Sindoor. Adding to this, when fans chanted ‘Kohli Kohli’ to mock him, he responded with a jet crashing gesture.
Celebrations are part of the game, but Sahibzada Farhan’s gesture against India grabbed attention. After smashing a half-century, he did a gun celebration, and Indian fans and BCCI didn’t take it lightly. Those moments intensified the drama.
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BCCI files official complaint against Pakistani stars
Haris Rauf’s gesture was just not limited to the boundary line, as the Pakistani bowler was engaged in a verbal spat with Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma. With these incidents grabbing attention, the BCCI has taken a strong stance. According to Dainik Jagran, India’s top cricket body has filed an official complaint, urging match referee Andy Pycroft to take action.
A BCCI official has also reflected on this move. The official said, “Such on-field behaviour is against the spirit of the game. We have complained to Andy Pycroft about this and demand strict action. Not only has an official complaint been made to Pycroft, but videos of Rauf and Sahibzada have also been attached to the email.”
In the ongoing Asia Cup 2024, India and Pakistan have already locked horns twice. Following their recent victory against Bangladesh, Team India has qualified for the Asia Cup final for the 12th time. On the other hand, Pakistan is set to face Bangladesh, aiming to secure a place in the final clash. As the arch-rivals never met in the Asia Cup final, history can be rewritten this time.
