Haris Rauf Suspended for 2 Games Over Asia Cup On-Field Gestures

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has handed Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf a two-game suspension after he accumulated four demerit points for inappropriate on-field conduct during the Asia Cup. The decision follows Rauf being found guilty of breaching Article 2.21 of the ICC Code of Conduct for his repeated jet-crashing gestures during the final and another match against India.

According to reports, Rauf was not informed by the match referee that accepting the offence could have resulted in a reduction of the penalty. Additionally, the demerit points were reportedly added after the hearing, without prior notification to the 31-year-old speedster. During the hearing, conducted by ICC Match Referee Richie Richardson, Rauf’s gestures were formally recognized as breaches of the Code of Conduct. In addition to the suspension, the ICC deducted 30% of Rauf’s match fee and assigned two demerit points for each breach.

The Asia Cup also saw other players sanctioned for controversial gestures. Pakistan batter Sahibzada Farhan was reprimanded after making an AK-47 gesture following a half-century against India. From the Indian contingent, Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav were similarly sanctioned. Another Indian pacer, Arshdeep Singh, was accused of making an obscene, offensive, or insulting gesture but was found not guilty, and no penalty was imposed.

The ICC’s strict action against these players underscores the governing body’s commitment to maintaining discipline and sportsmanship in international cricket. The Asia Cup, particularly matches between India and Pakistan, has historically been highly competitive and emotionally charged, and the ICC’s penalties send a clear message against inappropriate conduct on the field.

For Haris Rauf, this suspension will impact his availability for upcoming fixtures, while the demerit points will remain on his record for a two-year period, during which any additional breaches could result in further sanctions. The ICC continues to monitor player conduct closely to uphold the integrity and spirit of the game.