Tensions rise ahead of India-Pakistan clash as Pakistani players’ derogatory act sparks uproar
Dubai (The Uttam Hindu): The atmosphere has heated up ahead of the high-voltage India-Pakistan Super Four match in the Asia Cup 2025 today (September 21). Pakistani players have reportedly raised inflammatory slogans during a practice session in Dubai, further fueling already existing tensions.
According to reports, Pakistani players chanted "6-0, 6-0" during practice at the ICC Academy in Dubai. These chants are being linked to a recent military clash in which the Pakistani Air Force claimed to have shot down six Indian fighter jets. Fast bowler Haris Rauf reportedly started the chant, after which other players joined in. A video is also going viral on social media in which Rauf can be seen making the "6-0" gesture.
It's worth noting that the tension between the two teams has persisted since the group stage match, which India won by 7 wickets. That match was followed by a handshake controversy. In fact, following the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April, the Indian team decided not to shake hands with Pakistani players. In response, Pakistan boycotted the pre-match press conference.
The controversy didn't end there. Pakistan had demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, a demand the ICC rejected twice. Now, he has been appointed as the match referee for today's Super Four match, further increasing the potential for conflict. This new sloganeering controversy has once again made this epic cricket match a topic of discussion beyond the field.