In a startling revelation that has despatched shockwaves by the cricket world, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has levelled severe accusations in opposition to ex-Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, labelling him an “ill-mannered” participant susceptible to non-public assaults. This declare has been publicly supported by former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria, who described Afridi as missing “class and decency” and highlighted his personal previous experiences with the controversial participant.
A bitter rivalry between Irfan Pathan and Shahid Afridi
Pathan, talking on a preferred Indian media present, detailed a number of tense encounters with Afridi. He recalled an incident throughout a 2006 flight the place Afridi behaved condescendingly in the direction of him. Pathan’s sharp retort, “Since when have you ever grow to be my father?” set the tone for his or her strained relationship. The rivalry intensified when Afridi allegedly known as Pathan a “pretend Pathan,” a remark that the Indian all-rounder discovered deeply insulting and private. Pathan claims that whereas Afridi tried to impress him off the sphere, his efficiency on it spoke for itself, as he dismissed Afridi a outstanding 11 occasions in worldwide cricket. The verbal volleys didn’t cease there, with Pathan recounting a second the place he silenced Afridi with a chopping comment about his alleged consumption of canine meat.
Danish Kaneria backs Irfan Pathan’s claims
The controversy gained additional momentum when Danish Kaneria, a former teammate of Afridi, publicly backed Pathan’s claims on social media platform X (previously Twitter). Kaneria’s publish learn, “Irfan bhai, you’re completely proper. He at all times resorts to non-public assaults—be it on somebody’s household or their faith. Class and decency clearly aren’t his strengths.”
Irfan @IrfanPathan bhai, you’re completely proper. He at all times resorts to non-public assaults—be it on somebody’s household or their faith. Class and decency clearly aren’t his strengths.pic.twitter.com/nWOEA3vz49
— Danish Kaneria (@DanishKaneria61) August 17, 2025
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Kaneria’s assist stems from his personal bitter experiences within the Pakistan dressing room, the place he has beforehand accused Afridi of discrimination attributable to spiritual variations. Kaneria, a Hindu, alleged that Afridi inspired teammates to keep away from consuming with him and exhibited discriminatory behaviour—accusations Afridi has persistently denied.
Whereas Afridi stays a celebrated determine in his residence nation, his controversial remarks and behavior have usually polarized each followers and former gamers. The candidness of Pathan and Kaneria in talking out about these points has resonated with cricket followers globally, who are actually reminded of the emotional and unstable undercurrents which have lengthy outlined one of many sport’s fiercest contests. As the talk unfolds, it stays to be seen whether or not Afridi will reply, however this new chapter confirms the lasting influence that non-public dynamics can have on the historical past and legacy of sports activities.
Additionally READ: “Stop using patriotism when it suits you”: Danish Kaneria slams BCCI over Asia Cup approval
