Pakistan women’s team spinner Nashra Sundhu found herself at the center of an online debate after celebrating her milestone achievement with a gesture that reminded many fans of Haris Rauf’s actions against India. Playing against South Africa in Lahore on Monday, Sundhu picked up six wickets and became the fastest Pakistani woman to reach 100 wickets in ODI cricket. As part of her celebration, she raised six fingers, highlighting her wicket tally. She later shared the same photo on social media with a celebratory caption. “Alhamdullillah, Truly humbled to reach the milestone of 100 ODI wickets with a player of the match award. I am grateful to my family, teammates, and support staff for their constant support. Looking ahead with gratitude and determination,” Sundhu posted on social media. While many praised her performance, the gesture drew comparisons with Haris Rauf, who a day earlier had been at the heart of controversy with his “6-0” and plane-crashing gestures during the Asia Cup Super 4 clash against India. Some fans saw similarities, sparking criticism online.
Nashra Sundhu’s post on Instagram (Screengrab)
However, unlike Rauf’s actions, Sundhu’s gesture was clearly linked to her six-wicket haul and not directed at an opponent. Still, the timing of her celebration, coming right after the Asia Cup row, meant it was seen differently by many online. The discussion comes at a time when several Pakistan players have been under scrutiny for their on-field celebrations. Sahibzada Farhan had also drawn backlash in the same match with his “AK-47” gesture after completing his half-century. The opener held his bat like a gun and gestured firing shots at the crowd. He later clarified that the celebration came to him in the moment and that it was no premeditated.
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Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan strongly criticised these acts, saying that “The gestures he made in the field yesterday were needless. It tells about both of their nature and what upbringing they come from.” However, for Sundhu, though, the gesture appeared celebratory, but the way it appeared meant that the reaction was mixed.
