NEW DELHI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken swift disciplinary action against Pakistan cricketers Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan following their conduct during the recent high-stakes match against India. Pacer Haris Rauf has been handed a significant fine, while his teammate Sahibzada Farhan has received an official reprimand for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct.
The incident, which caught the attention of match officials and fans alike, involved provocative gestures that were deemed to be against the spirit of the game. The tension, already palpable in any India-Pakistan fixture, escalated, prompting an official review by the governing body.
According to reports from the Times of India and NDTV Sports, the ICC found both players in violation of its disciplinary code. Rauf’s actions were considered a more serious offense, leading to a monetary penalty. Farhan’s involvement resulted in a formal warning that will be on his record.
This decision comes amid a broader conversation about the on-field hostility between Indian and Pakistani players. Recent opinion pieces in publications like The Indian Express have called on the ICC to take a more active role in curbing aggressive behavior to ensure that the rivalry remains competitive but respectful.
The development also adds to the pressure on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The board and its chief, Mohsin Naqvi, have recently faced criticism for other matters, and this on-field disciplinary issue will bring further scrutiny.
The ICC’s ruling serves as a clear message to all players about maintaining decorum and upholding sportsmanship, especially in globally-watched contests like the India-Pakistan rivalry.
