As the hype intensifies for the high-octane India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 showdown, former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has again ruffled feathers with his remarks. Notorious for his controversial statements, Afridi reopened the WCL controversy once again by taking veiled digs at ex-India players and stirring up the controversy just days before the eagerly awaited match.
Shahid Afridi Brings Back WCL Controversy
Discussing on Samaa TV, Afridi vented anger at India’s decision to pull out of WCL matches against Pakistan in the first half of this year. He reasoned that cricket has always been the common ground between the two countries and also lambasted the move to avoid playing despite preparations and ticket sales within England.
“I’ve always maintained cricket must continue; it has always assisted in improving the relations between the two nations. In England, tickets had been purchased to view the WCL match, and the players had rehearsed. Then you didn’t play. What was the reasoning? I simply can’t get it,” Afridi added.
“Rotten Egg” Comment Comes Back to Haunt
Afridi also rekindled his notorious “rotten egg” remark, suggesting that an erstwhile India opener (predominantly rumored to be Shikhar Dhawan) had skipped playing Pakistan because of political tensions. Afridi alleged that the cricketer was privately counseled by then-captain Yuvraj Singh against making social media comments but was allowed to opt out of the game.
“If I mention the players, then they will get involved in a controversy. That player whom I mentioned was a bad egg, his captain also warned him, ‘If you don’t want to play, then don’t play. Just don’t tweet on social media.’ But that notwithstanding, the player had arrived with an ulterior motive. That is why he was a bad egg,” Afridi said.
“Still Trying to Prove They Are Indian”
In another biting remark, Afridi indicated that certain ex-India cricketers are “still trying to prove they are Indian,” a remark many viewed as unwarranted provocation in the buildup to Sunday’s blockbuster match. The comments already have social media abuzz, with fans and former players responding intensely.
India vs Pakistan Clash Build-Up Intensifies
The India-Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 game is set for Sunday, with the two sides having come into the match in fine touch. While India has been untainted in the group stage, Pakistan will be seeking to rebound from a heart-breaking defeat against Sri Lanka. The Afridi quotes are set to put more flavor into an already charged match, with fans of both countries preparing for the most hyped match in the tournament.
What This Means for the Rivalry
Afridi’s statements highlight how the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry continues to transcend the sport, often carrying political and emotional baggage. While many fans see such remarks as unnecessary distractions, others believe they add to the drama and excitement surrounding the clash.
