Dubai( The COW News Digital) The International Cricket Council (ICC) has handed down penalties to Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Pakistan’s star fast bowler Haris Rauf following a recent disciplinary hearing, while issuing a formal warning to Pakistan’s opening batter Sahibzada Farhan.
According to Indian media reports, both Suryakumar and Haris have been fined 30 percent of their match fees, while Farhan received an official warning for his on-field conduct. The sanctions come after a heated exchange during a high-pressure Asia Cup fixture that saw emotions run high between players of the two arch-rival teams.
The hearing was conducted by ICC Match Referee Ritchie Richardson, who questioned the players about their conduct. Sources suggest that the disciplinary panel examined video footage and match reports before arriving at its decision.
Suryakumar Yadav’s fine was linked to a controversial post-match comment that was widely interpreted as political. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had lodged an official complaint with the ICC, prompting the governing body to summon the Indian captain.
Meanwhile, Haris Rauf was accused of making provocative gestures after taking a key wicket. During the hearing, Haris denied any political or unsporting intention, reportedly telling the referee, “I made no political reference.” When asked specifically about a gesture interpreted as “six-zero,” Haris playfully responded by asking the referee what he thought it meant. Despite his defense, the ICC rejected his explanation and proceeded with the fine.
Sahibzada Farhan, who was also summoned, defended himself by saying, “Pathans celebrate like this, it was not meant to send a message to India.” The ICC panel accepted his explanation but still issued him a caution, warning that similar conduct in the future could lead to stricter action.
The incident has sparked debate among cricket fans, with some calling the penalties harsh given the context of a high-intensity Pakistan–India match. Others have praised the ICC for taking swift action to maintain the spirit of the game.
Both the PCB and BCCI have yet to issue formal statements following the verdict. The sanctions are expected to apply immediately, with fines deducted from the players’ match fees for the ongoing tournament.
