Another Pakistani cricketer sparks debate with milestone celebration amid Haris Rauf controversy

Following the controversy involving Haris Rauf's "6-0" and fighter jet gestures in the Asia Cup 2025, Pakistan women's player Nashra Sandhu has now sparked controversy for doing a similar celebration after accomplishing a personal milestone in a game against South Africa Women.

The incident took place during the third ODI on Monday, September 22, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium. Sandhu became the fastest Pakistani woman to take 100 wickets in ODI cricket. In a picture shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), she was seen flashing six fingers. Many fans linked the gesture to Haris Rauf’s controversial celebration just a day earlier.

Sandhu’s post included a celebratory caption: “Alhamdullillah, Truly humbled to reach the milestone of 100 ODI wickets with a player of the match award. I am grateful to my family, teammates, and support staff for their constant support. Looking ahead with gratitude and determination.”

Gesture Sparks Social Media Buzz

One point of discussion is that neither the PCB nor Sandhu herself has clarified the intent behind her gesture. Rauf, during the high-stakes Asia Cup 2025 Super Four match against India at Dubai International Stadium, had responded to Indian fans chanting “Kohli, Kohli” with mock fighter jet movements and the ‘6-0’ hand gesture. He referred to the disputed claim by Pakistani sources that six Indian jets were shot down in May during Operation Sindoor.

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Many Fans and Former cricketers criticised Rauf's celebration to be unsporting and provocative and reminded Pakistani players that they should show dignity, or play in the spirit of cricket. Sandhu's similar action has reignited discussions of sportsmanship and how to properly celebrate accomplishments on the international platform.