 "Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi were seen chatting during India's national anthem. Image: AFP")
Another controversy has erupted at the Asia Cup 2025 during the final between India and Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday. Pakistan fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf were caught on camera talking to each other while the Indian national anthem was being played before the start of the match.
Afridi, Rauf seen chatting during India’s anthem
Both teams had lined up for the anthems after the toss. Pakistan’s anthem was played first, followed by India’s. While most players stood still and in attention, Shaheen and Haris appeared to be chatting, a moment that went viral on social media. Many fans called the act “disrespectful” and criticised the players.
Both Haris and Shaheen were involved in heated altercations with India openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma during their previous meeting in the Super 4 stage. Haris was even fined by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for his controversial gestures during the game.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsAs far as the Asia Cup final is concerned, India won the toss and elected to bowl first. Suryakumar Yadav and Salman Agha didn’t shake hands once again, continuing their drama from the previous meetings in this tournament.