Umar Gul dismisses rumours of rift with Shaheen Afridi after viral video

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan red-ball bowling coach Umar Gul has rejected speculation about a disagreement with fast bowler Shaheen Afridi after a video from the second Test against Bangladesh circulated widely on social media.

The clip, recorded during Monday’s play at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, prompted online discussion after some users claimed it showed tension between the two during the match. The footage led to suggestions that an on-field exchange had taken place over the game situation.

There was no verified evidence about the content of the conversation, but the video still triggered confusion and speculation among social media users.

Gul addresses the issue

Speaking at a press conference, Gul said the incident had been misunderstood and made clear that there was no internal problem in the Pakistan squad. He explained that the interaction was linked to a routine update within the team setup rather than any dispute.

Gul said the matter involved Hasan Ali, who had sustained a head injury and was temporarily off the field. He added that Shaheen had only been informed about that situation.

Gul stated:

There was also a misunderstanding on social media regarding Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali. Hasan Ali had suffered a head injury and was off the field, and Shaheen was simply informed about the situation. There is no issue, but it was misinterpreted online.

His remarks were aimed at ending the discussion that followed the viral clip and the claims attached to it online.

Viral clip sparked online speculation

The video gained traction on social media after being shared with claims that Shaheen Afridi had shown disrespect towards Gul. However, there was no confirmed basis for those claims.

Gul’s clarification sought to put the matter to rest by explaining the context of the exchange during the Bangladesh Test. His account indicated that the communication was part of normal team coordination after Hasan Ali left the field following a head injury.

The clarification comes after widespread online commentary around the footage, which had been interpreted by some viewers as evidence of friction within the side. Gul, however, said there was no such issue and that the incident had been wrongly read on social media.