The heated India-Pakistan match in the Asia Cup has caused uproar among cricket fans. The ICC has fined Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf 30 percent of his match fee, citing the use of “abusive language.”
But surprisingly, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi will pay the fine himself. According to a Sama TV report, Naqvi made this decision to support Haris.
The match was played in Dubai, where India defeated Pakistan by 6 wickets.
Haris–Farhan Controversy
Pakistani opener Sahibzada Farhan also caused a commotion in the same match. After scoring a half-century in the first innings, he celebrated with a gun-like celebration, for which the ICC only issued him a warning.
The BCCI filed an official complaint against both players with the ICC and match referee Andy Pycroft.
During the match, Haris engaged in a heated argument with Indian openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill. Then, standing on the boundary, he responded to the taunts of Indian fans by making the “0-6” gesture.
This was a taunt at Pakistan’s claim that they had shot down six Indian fighter jets during Operation Sindoor in May.
Haris displayed aggressive behavior even after dismissing Sanju Samson. The Indian team called this inappropriate behavior on the field and demanded strict action.
Complaints from both sides: Surya also fined
Now, interestingly, the PCB also retaliated. They filed two complaints with the ICC against Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav.
The first was after Surya’s Pahalgam comment after the September 14 group match.
Surya had said after the victory, “This is the perfect opportunity, taking a moment to stand with the families of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. We express our solidarity.
We dedicate this win to all our armed forces who have shown great bravery. Hope they continue to inspire us all and whenever we get a chance, we will give them a reason to smile.”
The PCB felt this was a political statement. The ICC found Surya guilty of violating the Code of Conduct; he had pleaded not guilty, but referee Richie Richardson rejected it.
Surya was also fined 30 percent of his match fee. The PCB even demanded a Level 4 sanction from the ICC, the harshest penalty.
The BCCI is now preparing to challenge Surya’s fine. On the other hand, Naqvi’s stand is a boost for Harris, especially ahead of the final where India and Pakistan will clash again.
