Haris Rauf’s ‘6-0’ Gesture to Indian Fans Sparks Debate

News Desk

Dubai: Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf stirred controversy during Sunday’s Asia Cup clash against India after responding to taunts from Indian spectators with a hand gesture referencing “six-zero,” a symbol tied to a past military episode between the two countries.

Rauf’s action, in which he raised six fingers, was widely interpreted as a reminder of a military encounter known in Pakistan as Marka-e-Haq, when Pakistan Air Force jets reportedly downed six Indian aircraft. The gesture quickly spread across social media, drawing both praise and criticism.

Political Reaction

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif openly supported the cricketer’s response. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), he said:

“Haris Rauf hit it right. Keep it up. Cricket matches will happen, but India will not forget 6-0 till the day of judgement and the world will also remember it.”

His remarks gave the incident a political dimension, intensifying debate beyond the cricket field.

Match Outcome

Despite the controversy, India emerged victorious in the Group Stage match. Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 74 off 39 balls, alongside Shubman Gill’s quickfire 47 from 28 deliveries, powered India to a six-wicket win after electing to bowl first at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.