Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian cricket team's skipper, has been found guilty of breaching the ICC code of conduct following comments made after the Asia Cup group match against Pakistan on September 14, 2025. The incident has sparked controversy and heightened tensions between the two sides.
Following India's seven-wicket victory, Yadav dedicated the win to the Indian Armed Forces and expressed solidarity with the families of victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. These comments, however, led to an official complaint from Pakistan, alleging that Yadav's remarks constituted political messaging. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) argued that Yadav's words alluded to a military operation against Pakistan and demanded a Level 4 sanction, which is reserved for the most serious breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct.
The ICC match referee, Richie Richardson, presided over an official hearing where Yadav pleaded not guilty to the charge. Despite his plea, the ICC rejected it. While the exact sanction is yet to be confirmed, it is expected to include demerit points and/or a fine. Reportedly, Yadav has been fined 30% of his match fee. He was also cautioned against making statements that could be construed as political for the remainder of the tournament. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appealed the verdict.
Tensions between the two sides have been running high during the Asia Cup 2025. The controversy began with India's refusal to participate in the traditional handshake with Pakistani players at the toss and after the games, as a gesture of solidarity with the Pahalgam victims.
In related incidents, Pakistan players Sahibzada Farhan and Haris Rauf faced disciplinary hearings for on-field gestures during their Super Four match against India. Farhan mimed firing a gun after his half-century, while Rauf made gestures alluding to downing aircraft. Both players pleaded not guilty, arguing their actions were not political. While no official verdict has been announced, they are likely to face fines.