During the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match between India and Pakistan, Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf found himself at the center of controversy due to his actions on the boundary line. As Indian fans chanted “Virat Kohli,” seemingly in appreciation of Kohli’s past performance, Rauf responded with a “falling plane” gesture, which many interpreted as a taunt. This action was met with indignation by Indian supporters. Furthermore, Rauf made a “6-0” hand gesture, which some saw as a reference to Pakistan’s disputed claim of shooting down six Indian fighter planes amid military tensions. This move, accompanied by plane crash imitations, sparked questions about the mixing of politics and sport, especially given Pakistan’s stance on keeping the two separate. The incident occurred as India dominated Pakistan in the Super Fours.
