During a Super 4s match in the Asia Cup 2025 between India and Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 21, 2025, Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf ignited controversy with a gesture seemingly directed towards Indian fans. Videos and photos circulating online show Rauf, while fielding near the boundary, making a "6-0" gesture. This gesture is believed to be a reference to Pakistan's claim of downing six Indian fighter jets during a recent military escalation between the two countries.
The incident occurred amidst an already tense atmosphere. Prior to the match, Rauf was reportedly heard shouting "6-0" during a practice session, further fueling speculation about the meaning behind his actions. Some reports suggest this could be related to "Operation Sindoor," which was launched in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam. Pakistan has claimed that it shot down six Indian jets during the operation. However, the Indian Air Force has disputed these figures.
The gesture has evoked strong reactions on social media. Pakistani fans have lauded Rauf's actions as bold and cheeky, while Indian fans have expressed anger and outrage. Some reports indicate that fans were also chanting Virat Kohli's name at Rauf, which may have provoked the reaction.
This incident adds to the already fraught relationship between the cricket teams and their fans. In the same match, the Indian team continued its policy of not shaking hands with the Pakistani team, a decision reportedly made in response to recent border escalations and the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
The "6-0" gesture isn't the only instance of heated exchanges during the Asia Cup 2025. There are reports of Pakistani players making "personal attacks" against Indian players during their matches. These incidents highlight the intense rivalry and the emotional investment fans and players have in these encounters.
The gesture made by Haris Rauf has been interpreted as a provocative act, referencing a disputed claim of military success. Whether intended as a harmless jibe or a deliberate taunt, it has undoubtedly added another layer of complexity to the already highly charged India-Pakistan rivalry. It remains to be seen if the incident will have any further repercussions or impact the relationship between the two teams.
