ICC fines Suryakumar, Rauf and issues warning to Farhan

An India–Pakistan cricket clash always comes with extra intensity. Every ball on the field brings drama, and off the field it often sparks heated controversies. The ongoing Asia Cup has been no exception. Following the high-voltage Super Four match between the two rivals, several players have now found themselves in the spotlight for disciplinary reasons.

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf, and batter Sahibzada Farhan have been penalized or warned by the ICC for political remarks, controversial gestures, and celebrations.

After India’s victory over Pakistan in the Super Four, Suryakumar dedicated the win to the victims of the Pahalgam attack in Kashmir and to the Indian soldiers. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lodged a complaint, claiming his words carried political undertones. The ICC deemed it a breach of the Code of Conduct and fined the Indian skipper 30% of his match fee. The ruling was overseen by experienced match referee Richie Richardson.

However, the BCCI has appealed against the sanction. The timing of the appeal hearing remains uncertain, fueling wide debate in cricketing circles.

Pakistan too faced disciplinary action. During the same match, Haris Rauf was seen making a “6–0” gesture and mimicking an aircraft crash as part of his celebration. Following India’s complaint, the ICC fined Rauf the same penalty as Suryakumar—30% of his match fee.

Meanwhile, Pakistan batter Sahibzada Farhan, after scoring a half-century, celebrated with a “gunshot” gesture. Though the ICC did not consider it directly punishable, he has been officially warned.

This Asia Cup has arguably generated as much heat off the field as on it. While India have beaten Pakistan twice in the tournament already, all eyes are now on the September 28 final, where the arch-rivals are set to lock horns once again.

Cricket analysts say while the rivalry on the field adds to the beauty of the sport, political references and controversial celebrations damage its image. For now, strict ICC monitoring appears to be the only solution.