‘Everyone has the right to express themselves’ - Shaheen Afridi defends Haris Rauf's controversial act in IND vs PAK tie

Published - 24 Sept 2025, 15:27 IST | Updated - 24 Sept 2025, 15:38 IST

The India vs Pakistan Super Fours clash in the Asia Cup 2025 on September 21 turned out to be a battle that went beyond just bat and ball on the cricket field. The on-field antics of Pakistan’s Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan drew widespread reactions on social media, with several pundits and fans criticizing the duo for their immature and insensitive behaviour.

Ahead of Pakistan’s final Super Four match against Bangladesh, pacer Shaheen Afridi was asked about the gestures made by Rauf and Farhan. Afridi admitted that on-field celebrations should not be the team’s focus, emphasizing that their primary job is to play cricket. The left-arm quick downplayed the controversy surrounding Pakistan’s conduct, adding that everyone is entitled to their own perspective.

"Look, our job is to play cricket. Honestly, everyone has the right to express the way they want to. Everyone has their own respect. Everyone thinks the way they think. But our job is to play cricket. And we have come to win the tri-nation Series. We have come to win the Asia Cup. And we, God willing, as a team, are doing our best," said Shaheen as quoted by NDTV Sports.

While the finalists are yet to be confirmed, Pakistan’s pace spearhead expressed confidence in his side’s ability to overcome India if they clash in the title decider on Sunday. Afridi also acknowledged that Pakistan have struggled to secure victories against top-ranked teams in recent times but stressed that the players are determined to turn things around.

"They have not reached the final yet. We will see when they reach the final. We have come here to win the final and win the Asia Cup. We are ready for any team that comes. We will defeat them. Yes, we haven't won against big teams. You can say that we have grown in the rankings. But when you play against big teams, you win. The teams that are coming now, we are competing against them," he added.

It is noteworthy to mention that the Men in Green have already endured two consecutive defeats against India in the ongoing edition of the continental competition. However, the two arch-rivals could potentially meet once again in the tournament final on Sunday, September 28, which will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.