In a significant development during the Asia Cup, India has lodged an official complaint with the ICC against Pakistan cricketers Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan for their provocative gestures during the Super Four match on September 21. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) submitted the complaint on September 24, and the ICC has acknowledged receipt of the email. A hearing may be scheduled if Rauf and Sahibzada deny the allegations in writing, requiring them to appear before ICC Elite Panel Referee Richie Richardson.

The complaints stem from incidents during the match where Rauf made gestures mimicking the downing of a plane, which was perceived as mocking India's military actions. This occurred after Indian fans chanted "Kohli, Kohli" in reference to Virat Kohli's past performances against him. Rauf also directed abusive comments towards Indian openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma. Sahibzada Farhan celebrated his half-century with a controversial gun-firing gesture using his bat, which has drawn widespread criticism. He later stated, "That celebration was just a moment at that time... I don’t care about that."

In response, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has filed a complaint against Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav for his comments expressing solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and dedicating the team's victory to the Indian Armed Forces. The PCB claims that Suryakumar's remarks were political, although the timing of their complaint is under scrutiny as it must be filed within seven days of the comments.

Adding to the controversy, Asian Cricket Council chairman Mohsin Naqvi posted a video on social media of Cristiano Ronaldo making a gesture similar to Rauf's on-field actions. Naqvi, who is also the PCB chairman, is known for his provocative statements against India. The BCCI and ICC are closely monitoring the situation, and it remains to be seen if any actions will be taken against Naqvi.

As the tournament progresses, India, having reached the finals, may face Pakistan again if they win their next match against Bangladesh.