The already politically charged Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan has been thrust into fresh controversy, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly filing a complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against Indian fast-bowler Arshdeep Singh.
The complaint, lodged just hours before the historic first-ever India-Pakistan final scheduled for 8 PM IST on Sunday, accuses Arshdeep of making an alleged “obscene gesture” towards spectators after the Super-Four clash between the two rivals last Sunday (September 21).
Accusation of Code of Conduct Violation
According to reports citing PCB sources, the Pakistan board claims the left-arm pacer’s action after India’s six-wicket victory was “unethical” and a direct violation of the ICC Code of Conduct, arguing that it brought the game into disrepute. The PCB has urged the ICC to take swift disciplinary action against the bowler.
This marks the latest in a series of formal complaints traded between the two boards that have overshadowed the tournament. The PCB had previously lodged a complaint against Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, who was subsequently fined 30% of his match fee for dedicating the group-stage win to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and the Indian armed forces.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had also filed a counter-complaint, leading to fines for Pakistan players Haris Rauf (for abusive language and provocative gestures) and a warning for Sahibzada Farhan (for a controversial celebration).
The final, which is already steeped in controversy—including the Indian team’s refusal of the customary post-match handshake in earlier games—will now be played under the shadow of this fresh disciplinary row targeting Arshdeep Singh.