Cricket is a game of passion, but sometimes that passion leads to actions that aren’t in the spirit of the game. From gun salutes to middle fingers, some big players have got in trouble for their celebrations. Sahibzada Farhan’s gunfire gesture in the Asia Cup 2025 brings this issue up again.
Here are some of the most talked about on-field celebrations and the punishments that followed:
1. Sahibzada Farhan – Gun Salute vs India (Asia Cup 2025)
What happened: After hitting a six against India in Dubai, Farhan turned to the stands and pretended to fire a gun with his bat.
Why it was a problem: Given the tense relationship between India and Pakistan, the gesture was seen as offensive.
What happened next: No official penalty from the ICC has been announced yet, but similar actions have resulted in fines and demerit points in the past.
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2. Virat Kohli – Middle Finger to Sydney Crowd (2012)
What happened: Upset by the crowd at the SCG, Kohli flipped them off.
What happened next: He was fined 50% of his match fee under ICC rules.
Why it was a big deal: It made Kohli’s image as a fiery player and sparked debate whether it was suitable for a future India captain.
3. Kagiso Rabada – Shoulder Barge on Steve Smith (2018, Port Elizabeth Test)
What happened: After getting Smith out, Rabada bumped shoulders with him while celebrating loudly.
What happened next: He was initially suspended for two Tests but the suspension was later overturned on appeal.
Why it was a big deal: It raised questions whether Rabada’s aggression was part of his natural game or a step too far.
4. Shakib Al Hasan – Kicking the Stumps (Dhaka Premier League, 2021)
What happened: Angry about an umpire’s decision, Shakib kicked the stumps and then threw another one down.
What happened next: He was suspended for three matches and heavily fined by the Bangladesh Cricket Board.
Why it was a big deal: Shakib, Bangladesh’s biggest star, was criticized worldwide for setting a bad example
5. David Warner – Inappropriate Send-Offs (2015 vs India)
What happened: Warner has a history of aggressive send-offs, like swearing at Rohit Sharma in 2015.
What happened next: He was fined and given demerit points.
Why it was a big deal: It added to Warner’s reputation as a controversial player.
6. Ben Stokes – Rude Gesture (2017 vs West Indies)
What happened: After being dismissed, Stokes made an offensive gesture towards fans in Leeds.
What happened next: He was reprimanded and fined.
Why it was a big deal: It added to Stokes’ existing controversies and increased calls for stricter discipline.
ICC’s Stance
Level-1 breaches (minor gestures/abuse): fines up to 50% of match fee, demerit points.
Level-2 breaches (serious send-offs/physical contact): fines up to 100% of match fee, match suspensions.
Level-3 & 4 breaches: repeat or extreme behavior, leading to long bans.
Cricket without manners:
From Kohli to Stokes, Rabada to Shakib-the very best have had moments of poor behavior. Farhan’s gun salute may be seen as harshly judged, but history tells that the ICC is not tolerant of celebrations that go too far.
