(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Haris Rauf’s Gesture Sparks Debate During Asia Cup Clash Against India
September 22, 2025
Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf drew attention during the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash against India, not just for his bowling but also for a gesture made towards the crowd.
While fielding near the boundary, Rauf responded to chants from a section of Indian fans with a hand signal that quickly went viral on social media. The moment was widely shared, with supporters from both sides offering contrasting reactions — many Pakistani fans praised the bowler’s confidence, while Indian fans criticised the gesture as unnecessary.
The incident also drew remarks from Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who commented on social media in support of Rauf’s actions. His post further fueled the online debate, with the gesture becoming one of the most talked-about moments of the high-profile match.
No handshake after the match
Adding to the drama, the match ended without the traditional post-game handshake between the two teams. Players walked off separately after India successfully chased down Pakistan’s 172-run target with six wickets in hand.
Sanju Samson and Hardik Pandya guided India to victory in the 19th over, sealing their second win over Pakistan in the tournament. However, the absence of handshakes drew attention from commentators and fans, who described it as another sign of the ongoing tension between the two sides.
Rivalry beyond the field
The India–Pakistan rivalry remains one of the most intense in world cricket, where even small moments often become talking points. From gestures on the field to post-match traditions, every detail is closely followed by millions of fans across the globe.
With both teams still in contention for a place in the Asia Cup final, the cricketing world will be watching closely to see how the rivalry unfolds in the matches ahead.
