The Indian cricket team has lodged an official complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against Pakistan’s Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan following their controversial conduct during the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash in Dubai. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly filed the complaint on Wednesday, and the ICC has confirmed receipt of the same.
The dispute centers around Sahibzada Farhan’s “gun celebration” after reaching his half-century, a gesture that quickly went viral and drew widespread criticism from both fans and experts. What further intensified the controversy was Haris Rauf’s behaviour in the exact match.
The fiery pacer was seen making a “downing plane” gesture, widely perceived as mocking India’s military history. This came in response to Indian fans chanting “Kohli, Kohli,” referencing Virat Kohli’s iconic sixes against Rauf during the 2022 T20 World Cup in Melbourne.
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Rauf also clashed verbally with Indian openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, who had given India a flying start while chasing Pakistan’s target of 172 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
🚨THE BCCI LODGES COMPLAINT🚨
– The BCCI has lodged an official complaint against Haris Rauf & Sahibzada Farhan
– The BCCI demands strict actions from the match referee Andy Pycroft against both for provocative behaviour
– What’s your take🤔 #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/XkeDWtKA9R
— Richard Kettleborough (@RichKettle07) September 25, 2025
As per ICC regulations, if Farhan and Rauf deny the charges in writing, an official hearing will be scheduled, overseen by ICC Elite Panel Referee Richie Richardson. Should they fail to justify their actions, the players could face sanctions under the ICC Code of Conduct.
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Interestingly, Farhan appeared unapologetic about his actions. Speaking to the media, he said, “That celebration was spur of the moment. I don’t usually celebrate fifties, but the idea struck me, and I went for it without thinking how others might take it. We believe in playing aggressive cricket against every opponent, not just India.”
