Banned! Haris Rauf Sidelined for Crucial South Africa ODIs After ‘Obscene’ Gestures in India Match
Pakistan just got hit with some heavy news. Their star fast bowler, Haris Rauf, has been suspended for two crucial One Day Internationals against South Africa. The International Cricket Council (ICC) dropped the hammer on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, right before the series kicks off, all because of some controversial gestures Rauf made during a high-stakes Asia Cup 2025 match against India.
Key Takeaways
- Haris Rauf is banned for Pakistan’s first two ODIs against South Africa on November 4 and 6, 2025.
- The ban results from accumulating four demerit points within a 24-month period.
- The incident involved controversial ‘6-0’ and ‘obscene’ gestures aimed at fans during the IND vs PAK Asia Cup match on September 21.
- Rauf was also fined 30 percent of his match fee for breaching Article 2.21 of the ICC Code of Conduct.
- Other players, including India’s Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah, were also sanctioned for their conduct during the tournament.
So, What Exactly Happened?
Look, the India vs. Pakistan match is always intense, right? But things got out of hand on September 21 during the Asia Cup Super 4 clash. Haris Rauf was caught making what were described as ‘obscene’ gestures and a ‘6-0’ gesture toward the crowd. You just can’t do that.
The ICC took a very dim view of his actions. They found him guilty of breaching Article 2.21 of their Code of Conduct. This isn’t some minor slap on the wrist. It’s about maintaining a level of respect on the field, and the ICC decided a line had been crossed.
The ICC’s Final Ruling
Here’s the thing, it’s all about the points. The ICC gave Rauf two demerit points for this specific incident. The problem for him? He already had two points to his name from the last 24 months. Once you hit four demerit points, it triggers an automatic suspension. So, he’s out. Simple as that.
Get the Latest Updates
Be part of our sports community for daily news, expert analysis, and insider info.
On top of missing two games, he’s also been fined 30 percent of his match fee. Yeah, that’ll sting the wallet a bit, too. This move sends a clear message that on-field behavior is being watched. Closely.
Expert Analysis
This isn’t just about one player. The ICC’s decision is a clear signal that they’re cracking down on player conduct, especially after a fiery Asia Cup where emotions frequently boiled over. They’re drawing a line in the sand. Players across all nations now know that gestures and comments directed at fans or opponents won’t be tolerated, and the consequences are real and immediate.
Not Just Rauf: Asia Cup Sanctions Were Widespread
But honestly, Rauf wasn’t the only one in hot water. The Asia Cup 2025 was a fiery tournament all around. India’s Suryakumar Yadav was also fined 30 percent of his match fee and handed two demerit points. His teammate Jasprit Bumrah got one demerit point, and Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan was fined 30 percent and given one demerit point.
Even Arshdeep Singh from India was investigated, though he was ultimately found not guilty. It shows just how tense the atmosphere was, with reports even claiming the Indian team refused handshakes and didn’t accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi after one match.
Social Media Storm
As you can imagine, the moment Rauf’s gestures hit the screens, social media exploded. Fans from both India and Pakistan had strong opinions, and the debate has only intensified with the ICC’s ban. It’s a reminder of how every single action in an IND-PAK game is magnified and analyzed by millions around the world.
So what’s the takeaway? Pakistan will now face a tough South African side without one of their main strike bowlers for the first two matches. It’s a massive blow. Who do you think should step up to fill his shoes? Let us know your thoughts.