How It Started
During the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match in Dubai, Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan scored a brilliant 58 against India to complete his half-century. After reaching his milestone, he celebrated by raising his bat and making a gesture that looked like firing a gun.
The gesture lasted only a moment, but television cameras caught it clearly. Soon after, the clip spread rapidly across social media and triggered heated discussion.
Why It Drew Attention
Many people interpreted the action as provocative, especially in a match between India and Pakistan, where emotions always run high. Some felt it was not appropriate for an international stage, while others believed it was just an emotional celebration made without any bad intent.
Because of the growing debate, the BCCI filed a formal complaint with the ICC, calling the act unsporting.
ICC’s Decision
After reviewing the footage from the Asia Cup Super Four match between India and Pakistan, the International Cricket Council (ICC) issued an official warning to Sahibzada Farhan for his gun-style celebration.
His teammate Haris Rauf, meanwhile, was fined 30% of his match fee for a separate on-field gesture. The ICC emphasized that players must keep their celebrations respectful and professional.
The Controversy Returns
A few weeks later, Sahibzada Farhan avoided repeating the gun gesture on the field but introduced a “Gunmode” bat sticker, inspired by his earlier celebration. When he posted a photo of it on social media in early October, the image went viral and reignited criticism online.
Farhan’s Clarification
Farhan later clarified that he never intended to offend anyone. He said the celebration was a spontaneous reaction made in the heat of the moment. According to him, it was simply an emotional response, much like how other players express their excitement after a big performance.
