The much-hyped India vs Pakistan Super Four clash in the Asia Cup 2025 gave fans plenty of drama, not just with the bat and ball, but also because of what happened after the runs were scored.
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Former India cricketer Deep Dasgupta has come down heavily on Pakistan players Sahibzada Farhan and Haris Rauf, criticizing their on-field gestures which he called “insensitive” and “childish.”
Sahibzada Farhan and Haris Rauf's on-field celebrations jibe at India
The match saw some fiery exchanges between both sides. At one point, Indian openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill had words with Pakistan bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.
But what caught most attention was the celebration style of Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan, who used his bat to mimic a gun-firing gesture after his half-century.
Meanwhile, Haris Rauf added to the controversy by signaling a falling plane and even mocking India with a “6-0” gesture.
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These antics quickly went viral on social media and drew sharp criticism from former players and fans who felt the rivalry had been disrespected.
Deep Dasgupta slams Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan's on-field antics
Deep Dasgupta did not hold back in slamming the two Pakistan players. He pointed out that Farhan’s “gun-shooting” act was completely insensitive given the tragedies linked to such symbolism.
“If you speak about Sahibzada Farhan’s celebration, it was insensitive. How insensitive can you be? You played well, you scored 50, but how insensitive. People have lost their lives, and families have lost their near and dear ones. How can you do that? How can you celebrate like that?” said Dasgupta.
Is the India vs Pakistan rivalry losing its meaning?
Dasgupta suggested that moments like these only weaken the legendary status of the India-Pakistan rivalry.
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He stressed that cricket at this level should be about respect, intensity, and maturity. India’s players showed restraint and focus, and the contrast in behavior between the two sides was clear for everyone to see.
“This is childishness. We always say that at this level, it is not about the skill, it is about the maturity and what’s in your head. In these aspects, the thought process and the mentality, the rivalry is not there, and if the situation persists, it won’t be there,” said Dasgupta.
“I completely agree with what Suryakumar Yadav said in the press conference. There is no rivalry, and there cannot be any rivalry between men and children. If you see the reactions from both teams, then you would understand what I am talking about,” he added.
For now, India walked away with the win on the field, while Pakistan walked away with criticism off it. The debate, however, is far from over.
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