Pakistan's opener Sahibzada Farhan has pleaded 'not guility' on his gun-shot celebration during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India and said that it was entirely non-political during the ICC's hearing. Following his crucial fifty against the Men in Blue in Dubai on September 21st, Farhan celebrated his milestone by using his bat as a gun and making a shooting gesture. This action sparked considerable controversy, particularly given the already heightened political and military tensions between the two nations.
Sahibzada Farhan pleads 'not guilty' for 'Gun celebration'
Sports Tak has learnt that Farhan defended his actions during the subsequent ICC hearing, insisting that the celebration did not stem from any political motive. He reportedly pointed out that such gestures are common in celebrations, including weddings, and are not unprecedented in cricket. The right-handed batter highlighted that even renowned cricketers like India's Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni have been known to use similar celebratory actions in the past.
It was not only Sahibzada Farhan who was summoned before the apex body; fast bowler Haris Rauf was also called in to answer for a provocative '6-0' gesture he made.
The BCCI had formally lodged a complaint against both players with the ICC and match referee Andy Pycroft following their inappropriate actions during the high-voltage Asia Cup Super Four encounter on September 21st. The Indian team demanded strict action, arguing that the conduct of both players had crossed the line of acceptable on-field behaviour.
Talking about Farhan's performance in Pakistan's decisive Super 4 clash against Bangladesh on September 25 was disappointing, as he managed only four runs. The Men in Green's batting line-up struggled once again, failing to build any momentum and limping to a total of 135/6. Fortunately for the batters, Pakistan's world-class bowling attack stepped up dramatically to save the day, with Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi each claiming three wickets. This stellar effort restricted Bangladesh, who fell short of the target by just 11 runs.
The thrilling victory has set the stage for a historic finale. For the first time ever, India and Pakistan will face off in the Asia Cup final. As they head into the title match, the Men in Blue are considered the overwhelming favorites, having already defeated Pakistan twice earlier in the competition.