Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh Avoid Suspension After Asia Cup Incident
Indian fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh were not suspended following a controversy during the 2025 Asia Cup held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The International Cricket Council (ICC) concluded hearings by the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after intense matches between India and Pakistan on September 14, 21, and 28.
Arshdeep Singh Cleared of Major Charges
Arshdeep Singh was cleared of violating Article 2.6, related to the use of obscene or offensive gestures. He was initially accused of making a hand gesture during the Super Four match on September 21, but the ICC found no breach.
Jasprit Bumrah's Warning for On-Field Gesture
Bumrah accepted a charge under Article 2.21 for conduct bringing the game into disrepute. This related to his ‘plane-crash’ celebration after dismissing Haris Rauf in the final, which was seen as a reply to Rauf’s earlier ‘airplane’ gesture during the Super Four encounter.
The ICC issued Bumrah an official warning and one demerit point but ruled out suspension.
The ICC confirmed no further penalties would be imposed, resolving the issue.
Summary
Both players faced disciplinary scrutiny but escaped suspension, with Bumrah receiving only a warning and a demerit point for his actions.
Author's conclusion: The ICC's decision highlights the emphasis on maintaining discipline while allowing some leniency for competitive gestures in cricket.