Haris Rauf, the Pakistani fast bowler, has once again found himself embroiled in controversy following his actions during the Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan in Dubai. Despite recently receiving an ICC fine for a similar gesture, Rauf repeated a "plane-crash" celebration after taking a catch to dismiss Indian opener Abhishek Sharma. This provocative act, interpreted by many as a mocking reference to Pakistan's disputed claims of downing Indian fighter jets in 2019, has ignited strong reactions, particularly from Indian fans.
Just days prior to the final, Rauf was penalized 30 percent of his match fee for making the same gesture during the Super Four clash between the two arch-rivals. The ICC's initial punishment was intended as a deterrent, but Rauf's repeat offense suggests otherwise.
The incident occurred in the second over of India's innings, as they were chasing a target of 147. After Faheem Ashraf deceived Abhishek Sharma with a slower delivery, Rauf, stationed at mid-on, took the catch. While the official television broadcast did not capture Rauf's subsequent actions, fan-recorded videos quickly circulated on social media, showing him making the "plane dip" gesture. According to some reports, Rauf repeated the gesture multiple times as Ashraf celebrated.
Rauf's behavior has overshadowed the cricketing contest and sparked debate about sportsmanship. This is not the first time Rauf has been at the center of controversy during the Asia Cup 2025. During the Super Four match between India and Pakistan, Rauf was seen making what was described as a "6-0" gesture towards Indian fans and also mimicking a plane falling from the air. This occurred while Indian fans were chanting "Kohli, Kohli," reminding Rauf of the two sixes Virat Kohli hit off his bowling at the 2022 T20 World Cup. Rauf also reportedly directed abusive words towards the Indian opening pair, Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma.
Following the Super Four match, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) lodged a complaint with the ICC. Rauf and Pakistani opener Sahibzada Farhan, who was observed brandishing his bat like a gun after reaching his half-century, were both found guilty of Level 1 offenses under the ICC Code of Conduct. While Rauf was fined 30 percent of his match fees, Farhan received an official reprimand.
During the ICC hearing, Rauf pleaded not guilty, insisting that his "6-0" gesture was not aimed at India and questioning ICC officials about their interpretation of the gesture. He maintained that his actions did not reference India. Farhan defended his "gun-shot" celebration by saying it wasn't political and that former Indian captains MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli had used the same gesture in the past.
The repeat offense in the final has led to speculation that the ICC may impose stricter sanctions. Some reports also suggest that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and BCCI could appeal the ICC's recommendations.
Adding to the tension between the two sides, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf were also accused of disrespecting the Indian national anthem during the Asia Cup 2025 final. Cameras caught Afridi and Rauf talking during India's anthem.
These incidents highlight the intensity and rivalry that characterize India-Pakistan cricket matches, sometimes spilling over into controversies that extend beyond the game itself.
