The high-octane India vs Pakistan Super 4 clash in the Asia Cup 2025 last Sunday was not just about runs, wickets, and strategies. The spotlight also fell on controversial gestures made by Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan, which triggered a wave of criticism on social media. Many former cricketers and fans labelled the actions as “unnecessary” and “immature,” questioning the spirit of the game.
Shaheen Afridi opens up on criticism around Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan’s antics on the field against India
Ahead of Pakistan’s crucial final Super 4 match against Bangladesh, pacer Shaheen Afridi was asked about the criticism surrounding the duo’s behaviour. Offering a composed response, Shaheen said that while every player has the freedom to express themselves, their primary focus as a team remains on cricket.
“Look, our job is to play cricket. Honestly, everyone has the right to express the way they want to. Everyone has their own respect. Everyone thinks the way they think. But our job is to play cricket. And we have come to win the tri-nation Series. We have come to win the Asia Cup. And we, God willing, as a team, are doing our best,” Shaheen remarked in the pre-match presser.
Pakistan under pressure after back-to-back defeats against India
Pakistan’s campaign in the Asia Cup has been under the scanner, with the team suffering two successive losses to India in the tournament. The defeats not only dented their confidence but also sparked heated on-field exchanges, including the gestures that drew widespread criticism. Although, Pakistan did make a comeback after beating Sri Lanka in their second Super 4 game on Tuesday.
Shaheen reacts on potential India-Pakistan final
Despite the setbacks, Shaheen maintained that Pakistan team is united and determined to bounce back. He reiterated that the dressing room is focused on the bigger picture—winning the Asia Cup and regaining pride on the continental stage. Notably, the narrative of this year’s Asia Cup could take another dramatic turn, with the possibility of an India-Pakistan final on September 28. While both teams are yet to secure their spots, the prospect of another clash between the arch-rivals has kept fans buzzing.
When asked about a potential rematch with India, Shaheen expressed confidence that Pakistan can turn the tables in a high-stakes encounter.
“They have not reached the final yet. We will see when they reach the final. We have come here to win the final and win the Asia Cup. We are ready for any team that comes. We will defeat them,” Shaheen asserted.
