After Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi gets in another fight; PCB release statement

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stated rumors of an alleged rift between Shaheen Afridi, skipper Salman Ali Agha, and head coach Mike Hesson. Notably, the PCB labelled the circulating social media claims as “baseless, fabricated, and defamatory” amid the West Indies tour.

Earlier, a social media post went viral, alleging that Hesson and Agha were unhappy with Afridi’s attitude. It claimed they had raised their concerns with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi but received no response. These rumors triggered backlash against Shaheen and fueled speculation of a rift within the squad.

PCB Issues Clarification on Rumour of Shaheen Afridi Spat With Captain on West Indies Tour

The Pakistan Cricket Board responded to viral rumors of a rift between Shaheen Afridi, Salman Ali Agha, and the head coach during the West Indies tour. In a statement, the PCB confirmed that no such incident had taken place during training or practice sessions.

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"The Pakistan Cricket Board categorically denies the baseless, fabricated, and defamatory allegations currently being circulated on social media about an alleged incident involving Shaheen Afridi, team captain Salman Ali Agha, and a member of the coaching staff," the PCB said in an official statement.

"The PCB affirms that no such incident has occurred at any point during training or practice sessions. These malicious rumours are entirely fictitious and appear to have been deliberately concocted with clear mala fide intent to sow discord within the national squad."

PCB Considers This a Serious and Premeditated Defamation Campaign

The PCB called the rumors part of a deliberate defamation campaign. As per the statement, the board warned that anyone found spreading such false claims would face legal consequences. It also urged the public, media, and online platforms to avoid sharing unverified information.

"The PCB considers this a serious and premeditated defamation campaign, which is aimed at damaging the professional integrity of the individuals targeted and the collective environment of the squad," the statement continued. "Any persons found complicit in propagating these claims will be held fully accountable under applicable laws."

"The PCB remains committed to protecting its players, staff, and the sanctity of the national team from unwarranted and harmful speculation," it added.

Shaheen Afridi Makes His Return to International Cricket During Pakistan’s Tour of the West Indies

Shaheen Afridi made his return to international cricket during Pakistan’s tour of the West Indies. He had a standout PSL 2025 campaign, where he not only finished as the leading wicket-taker but also led Lahore Qalandars to the title.

Pakistan entered the series after a disappointing T20I loss in Bangladesh, which led to multiple changes in the squad. The team responded well on the field amid rumours. They defeated the West Indies, led by Shai Hope, by 14 runs in the opening T20I at Central Broward Park in Florida.

Afridi picked up one wicket for 27 runs in his four overs while defending a total of 178 runs. Saim Ayub was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance.

The remaining two matches of the three-match series are scheduled to take place at the same venue on August 3 and 4, respectively.

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