Pakistan’s women’s cricket team has grabbed attention not only for their on-field performances but also for unexpected controversies. Recently, Nashra Sandhu’s 6-0 gesture controversy made headlines after her stellar six-wicket haul against South Africa on September 22, 2025. She celebrated her achievement with a ‘6-0’ gesture, which many compared to a similar move by men’s team pacer Haris Rauf during the Asia Cup earlier that week. Consequently, this act ignited discussions about sportsmanship and the appropriateness of such gestures in cricket.
During the third ODI against South Africa, Sandhu bowled exceptionally, leading Pakistan to a convincing victory. After earning the Player of the Match award, she shared a photo on social media showing six fingers, celebrating her milestone of 100 ODI wickets. While she intended to mark her personal achievement, fans and commentators quickly noticed the resemblance to Haris Rauf’s ‘6-0’ gesture, which had already caused controversy.
Earlier, Haris Rauf had performed his ‘6-0’ gesture during a match against India. Many interpreted it as a provocative reference to Pakistan’s unverified claim of shooting down six Indian fighter jets in a past confrontation. Additionally, Rauf mimicked fighter jet movements, which intensified criticism and fueled debates about politics in sports. Consequently, his gesture became widely criticized for being unsportsmanlike.
Because Sandhu’s gesture followed Rauf’s closely, people began questioning whether she intentionally imitated him. However, neither Sandhu nor the Pakistan Cricket Board has officially clarified her intentions. Therefore, speculation and criticism continue, with some suggesting she aimed to attract attention by mirroring Rauf’s controversial action.
This controversy emphasizes the fine line athletes must walk between celebrating personal milestones and upholding the spirit of the game. On one hand, players naturally express joy after achieving significant milestones. On the other hand, they must consider the broader implications of their actions, especially in a sport with a global audience like cricket.
In conclusion, Nashra Sandhu’s 6-0 gesture controversy reminds everyone of the influence athletes hold beyond the cricket field. Moreover, it highlights the importance of sportsmanship and careful consideration before performing gestures that may appear politically charged or provocative. As debates continue, fans eagerly await how Sandhu and the Pakistan Cricket Board will address this contentious issue.
