Islamabad: Pakistan batter Sahibzada Farhan has once again courted controversy after unveiling a new “GunMode” bat sticker, inspired by his infamous firing gun celebration against India during the Asia Cup 2025. The move has drawn widespread criticism on social media, reigniting debates over sportsmanship and the increasing politicisation of cricket in the subcontinent.

The 29-year-old top-order batter, who emerged as Pakistan’s leading run-scorer in the Asia Cup with 217 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 116.04, had earlier faced disciplinary action for his celebratory gesture. His latest stunt, revealed through an Instagram video, was deleted shortly after going viral amid public outrage.

The controversy reignited

The controversy dates back to the Super 4 clash against India, where Farhan celebrated his half-century by mimicking a gun-firing gesture — a move that many deemed insensitive, particularly given that it came just months after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.

Farhan later claimed that the gesture was “a part of celebration culture” in his hometown, Charsadda, located in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) lodged a formal complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC), labelling it a “provocative and distasteful act” that violated the spirit of the game.

Following an internal inquiry, ICC match referee Richie Richardson issued Farhan an official warning. Though he escaped suspension, the batter was advised to refrain from such conduct in the future.

‘GunMode’ sticker draws sharp backlash

Despite the warning, Sahibzada Farhan reignited controversy upon his return to Pakistan by releasing a custom “GunMode” bat sticker — a direct reference to the same celebratory act. In the now-deleted Instagram video, Farhan proudly displayed the new sticker design, boasting that it represented his “fearless playing style.”

The video, however, sparked an immediate backlash from both cricket fans and analysts. Critics accused Farhan of glorifying violence and nationalism in a sport meant to foster unity and respect.

Social media platforms were flooded with reactions, many calling the move “tone-deaf” and “provocative.” Several users also tagged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), urging it to take disciplinary action.

“Cricket is not a battlefield. This behaviour undermines the game’s integrity,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter).

Others pointed out that Farhan’s celebration had already strained India-Pakistan cricket relations, which are perennially tense due to political factors. “After being warned once, this seems like deliberate provocation,” another user commented.

Support and celebration at home

In contrast, Farhan received a hero’s welcome upon returning to Charsadda. Local fans reportedly celebrated his Asia Cup performance, hailing his “fearless attitude” as a symbol of national pride. Several young fans were even spotted with homemade “GunMode” posters, highlighting the polarised reaction within Pakistan.

Videos circulating online showed large crowds greeting Farhan, chanting slogans and hoisting him onto their shoulders. Local organisers described the event as a “homecoming celebration for a national hero.”

While the PCB has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the new controversy, sources within the board told Geo News that officials are “monitoring the situation closely” and may consider a reminder about player conduct and social responsibility.

A pattern of provocations

This is not the first time that a Pakistani cricketer has drawn criticism for on-field celebrations with political or militaristic undertones. Past incidents include players performing military-style salutes and simulated gunfire gestures, which have often been defended domestically as “expressions of passion.”

However, international observers argue that such displays damage the global image of Pakistani cricket, particularly at a time when the PCB is pushing for more bilateral tours with major nations.

“Sports figures have immense influence, and gestures like these can inflame sentiments on both sides,” said a former ICC official on condition of anonymity. “The ICC should consider clear codes on celebratory conduct, especially in matches with political sensitivities.”

Conclusion

The “GunMode” sticker episode underscores the growing politicisation and nationalism in South Asian cricket, where symbolic gestures often carry meanings beyond the sport. For Sahibzada Farhan, who had hoped to capitalise on his Asia Cup success, the backlash serves as a stark reminder that fame carries responsibility — and that the line between passion and provocation in cricket remains perilously thin.