Pakistani cricketer Sahibzada Farhan has once again courted controversy, this time by proudly unveiling a new bat sticker he’s dubbed ‘Gunmode.’ The design draws inspiration from his much-talked-about AK-47 celebration during an Asia Cup Super Four match against India. The 28-year-old even announced in a video his intention to prominently feature this new sticker in upcoming games, making it clear that his polarizing on-field theatrics are here to stay.
A video showcasing the new sticker quickly made rounds online.
Farhan initially gained notoriety when he celebrated his half-century against India in Dubai. After smashing a six off Axar Patel, he mimicked firing an AK-47 with his bat, a gesture that instantly captivated and divided audiences, going viral across social media. He carried this aggressive batting style into the Asia Cup final, where he scored a quickfire 57 runs off just 34 balls, including three sixes off India’s formidable pacer Jasprit Bumrah. His performance also contributed to a strong 84-run opening partnership with Fakhar Zaman.
Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan (ANI Photo)For more cricket insights, consider exploring dedicated sports channels.
Yet, despite his impressive individual performance, Pakistan’s batting order spectacularly collapsed, losing nine wickets for a mere 33 runs and being bowled out for a total of 146. India comfortably chased down this modest target, with Tilak Varma sealing a five-wicket victory and securing the Asia Cup with a pivotal six in the second-to-last over. Ultimately, Farhan’s flashy celebrations couldn’t overshadow his team’s dismal failure.
It’s noteworthy that, even after the Asia Cup’s disappointing outcome, Farhan was reportedly honored in Pakistan for his theatrical displays.
What truly raises eyebrows is that Farhan was celebrated in Pakistan specifically for these controversial antics, seemingly glorifying showmanship over actual team success. Critics argue that such gestures detract from the sport’s essence, emphasizing excessive theatrics at the expense of genuine cricketing prowess. Farhan’s new ‘Gunmode’ sticker unfortunately reinforces the perception that, in certain circles, individual spectacle can take precedence over collective sportsmanship and performance.
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