The on-field rivalry between India and Pakistan is often a high-octane affair, but the ongoing Asia Cup 2025 has seen the tension spill beyond the boundaries of the cricket field. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has lodged an official complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against two Pakistani players. The complaint stems from what the BCCI has deemed as provocative and unsportsmanlike gestures made during the intense Super Four clash between the two teams.

The controversial gestures by Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan

The complaint centers around two specific incidents that took place during the match in Dubai. The first involves Pakistani pacer Haris Rauf, who, in response to “Kohli, Kohli” chants from the crowd, made gestures that reportedly mocked Indian fans and even referenced a politically sensitive military incident. He was seen mimicking a plane crashing and also displayed a “6-0” hand gesture, a reference to an unverified propaganda claim.

The second incident involves opening batter Sahibzada Farhan. After reaching his half-century, Farhan celebrated by holding his bat and mimicking a machine gun firing. While some may argue it’s just a celebration, the BCCI has viewed it as a provocative and insensitive act, especially in the context of the high-stakes match and the existing tensions between the two nations.

Also READ: Shaheen Afridi breaks silence on Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan’s controversial gestures in Asia Cup Super 4 clash

BCCI files official complaint to ICC

According to sources close to PTI, the BCCI submitted its official complaint against Rauf and Farhan on Wednesday, and the ICC has confirmed receipt of the email. If the players choose to deny the charges in writing, a formal hearing could be scheduled. Both Rauf and Farhan may be required to appear before ICC Elite Panel Referee Richie Richardson, where they will have to justify their conduct. Depending on the outcome, the players could face penalties under the ICC Code of Conduct if their explanations are deemed insufficient.

The ball is now in the ICC’s court. The global cricketing body has acknowledged the receipt of the complaints from both sides. The outcome could range from a warning to fines or even a suspension, depending on the severity of the offense as judged by the ICC’s code of conduct.

Also READ: Asia Cup 2025: Ishant Sharma shares his thoughts on why he feels bad for Pakistan cricket team