PCB files complaint against Indian pacer over obscene gestures

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has lodged a formal complaint with the International Cricket Council (ICC) against Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh for making obscene gestures toward spectators during the Asia Cup 2025 match with Pakistan.

According to media reports, the incident occurred on September 21, following the conclusion of the Pakistan-India Super Four clash.

In its complaint, the PCB stated that Arshdeep’s actions violated the ICC Code of Conduct, describing his behaviour as unethical and damaging to the spirit of the game. The board has called for strict action against the left-arm fast bowler for the alleged breach.

This follows a recent ruling against Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, who was found guilty of violating the code of conduct after making comments alluding to the military tensions between India and Pakistan following their Asia Cup group match on September 14.

While no official announcement has yet been made, the ICC had instructed Yadav to refrain from making political statements in the future. The PCB said that he politicised cricket and breached the ICC’s neutrality rules.

In a related matter, the PCB has decided to challenge the verdict against Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf, who was fined 30% of his match fee by the ICC match referee for a gesture during play.

A senior PCB official said that while the board and team management were awaiting formal verdict, Rauf had already been found guilty and penalised. The official added that the PCB intends to appeal the decision.