Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan has found himself at the centre of controversy after his ‘gunshot’ celebration during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 match against India. The 28-year-old batter, who scored a crucial 58 off 45 balls, drew mixed reactions for his gesture after reaching his half-century — a move that has since sparked widespread debate across social media and cricketing circles.
The celebration that stirred debate
After reaching fifty, Farhan mimicked firing a gun with his hands — a move that instantly became a talking point. While some fans saw it as a display of confidence and aggression, others criticised it as being inappropriate for an international stage.
The gesture divided opinions online, with many Indian fans calling it “provocative” while others from Pakistan defended it as part of Farhan’s expressive style.
Farhan defends his gesture
Speaking after the match, Farhan downplayed the controversy, saying his celebration was spontaneous. “It just came to my mind at that moment. I don’t usually celebrate much after scoring fifty, but I felt like doing something different,” Farhan said.
He added that his intent was to express passion and aggression, not to offend anyone. “You should play aggressive cricket against every team. It’s not about India — we always want to play bold, fearless cricket,” he explained.
ICC action and hearing
According to a PTI report, the ICC match referee Richie Richardson held a disciplinary hearing at the team hotel following the incident. While pacer Haris Rauf was fined 30 percent of his match fee for aggressive behaviour, Farhan was let off with a warning.
A tournament source told PTI, “Farhan’s celebration was reviewed under the ICC’s Code of Conduct. The player was warned after being reminded about the importance of maintaining the spirit of the game.”
Farhan and Rauf both appeared in person before the referee, accompanied by Pakistan team manager Naveed Akram Cheema.
Cultural context and defence
Tournament officials said Farhan explained that the ‘gun gesture’ was a traditional celebratory expression among Pashtuns, his ethnic community. He reportedly added that similar gestures have been used by players like Virat Kohli in the past.
The batter reiterated that there was “no disrespect intended” and that the celebration was an emotional, cultural expression rather than an act of provocation.
Recreates gesture in promotional shoot
Despite the warning, Farhan once again recreated his “gunshot” pose in a recent promotional shoot, reigniting the discussion. While some fans viewed it as defiance, others interpreted it as the cricketer embracing his identity unapologetically.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the thin line between personal expression and sportsmanship in modern cricket. As debates around Farhan’s gesture continue, the ICC’s lenient warning suggests a desire to balance cultural sensitivity with the discipline of the game.