Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has decided to personally cover the fine imposed on fast bowler Haris Rauf by the International Cricket Council (ICC). The pacer was fined 30 percent of his match fee for using inappropriate language during the heated Pakistan vs India Asia Cup clash on September 21 in Dubai.
The ICC acted following a complaint filed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). After reviewing the matter, match referee Andy Pycroft confirmed the penalty against Rauf. At the same time, batter Sahibzada Farhan received an official warning for his on-field celebration, which the BCCI labeled as unsportsmanlike.
Reports suggest that Naqvi’s decision to pay the fine was driven by his belief that Rauf’s actions stemmed from the high-pressure environment of the match. He also wanted to demonstrate his support for the players amid mounting criticism following the defeat.
The disciplinary measures followed India’s six-wicket victory in the Asia Cup Super Fours, where both incidents sparked wide discussion on and off the field. Rauf’s confrontation with Indian players and his gestures toward the crowd, alongside Farhan’s celebration, became hot topics across cricketing circles.
While the ICC took official notice of the behavior, Naqvi’s gesture has been seen as an expression of solidarity with the team. PCB officials stressed that the board continues to promote discipline but also acknowledges the passion and intensity that come with Pakistan-India encounters.
