The Asia Cup 2025 is more than just cricket this time. For both India and Pakistan, it is about pride, passion, and emotions. The two sides are set to face each other in Dubai this Sunday, and excitement is already high.
Afridi’s Sharp Comments
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has once again drawn attention with his words. This time his remarks are aimed at Shikhar Dhawan and Yuvraj Singh. Instead of cricket talk, Afridi has brought back past controversies.
The WCL 2025 Controversy
During the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, India Champions led by Yuvraj Singh were supposed to face Pakistan Champions. But the match was cancelled after Indian players like Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, and Irfan Pathan pulled out following social media backlash.
Dhawan later clarified that he had already informed the organisers he would not play. Afridi, however, was not convinced. At the time, he labelled one Indian player a “bad egg” and suggested the cancellation ruined the tournament.
Renewed Criticism Before Asia Cup
Now, just before the India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash, Afridi has reopened the issue. Speaking on Samaa TV, he criticised the Indian players who had withdrawn. He said, “Bechaare jabse paida huye hain, saabit kar rahe hain ki hum Hindustani hain. Now they are doing commentary in the Asia Cup.”
The comments were clearly directed at Dhawan and Yuvraj, who are now part of the commentary panel. Afridi also hinted that some players had “ulterior motives” when they skipped the WCL.
A Pattern of Provocation?
This is not the first time Afridi has sparked controversy. After the Pahalgam terror attack, he made remarks against India’s armed forces which led to a social media clash with Dhawan. His recent comments appear to follow the same pattern of provocation.
Emotions Before the Big Match
The timing of Afridi’s remarks is significant. India and Pakistan will be meeting for the first time since the terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Emotions in India are already running high, with calls for boycotts growing louder.
Afridi’s statements only add to the off-field drama. The key question remains: Will his words have any effect on the players in Dubai, or will the real contest be decided only on the pitch?
Shahid Afridi said, “Some indian players are still trying to prove they are Indians. Since birth, they’ve been showing that they are Indians, and now they are doing commentary in the Asia Cup.”pic.twitter.com/Ru0sYdZfYO
— junaiz (@dhillow_) September 11, 2025
