PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has decided to personally cover the fine imposed on fast bowler Haris Rauf by ICC. The pacer was fined 30 percent of his match fee for using inappropriate language during the high-pressure Pakistan–India match on September 21 in Dubai.
The ICC’s action came after a complaint was formally filed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Match referee Andy Pycroft reviewed the matter and imposed the penalty on Rauf.
At the same time, batter Sahibzada Farhan was issued an official warning for his on-field celebration, which the BCCI argued was unsportsmanlike.
Reports suggest that the PCB chairman’s decision to pay Rauf’s fine was motivated by his belief that the fast bowler acted in the heat of the moment during an emotionally charged contest. Naqvi also wanted to show his support for the players at a time when they were facing heavy criticism.
The disciplinary action followed India’s six-wicket victory in the Asia Cup Super Fours, where both incidents drew attention on and off the field.
Rauf’s confrontation with Indian players and gestures toward the crowd, as well as Farhan’s celebration after scoring runs, became talking points across cricketing circles.
While the ICC took official notice of the behavior, the PCB chairman’s gesture has been viewed as a sign of solidarity with the team.
Officials say the board continues to encourage discipline but also recognizes the passion and intensity that often comes with Pakistan-India matches.
