Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has put an end to the speculations surrounding his alleged discord with captain Babar Azam, which arose in the wake of Pakistan's elimination from the 2023 Asia Cup. Reports had emerged suggesting a disagreement between Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi following Pakistan's loss to Sri Lanka in the virtual semi-final of the tournament. However, journalist Shoaib Jatt from ARY News had previously indicated that both players, along with wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, were in agreement on certain matters.
Taking to Twitter, Shaheen Afridi has officially affirmed that all is well between him and Babar Azam. He shared a photograph of the two of them together, dispelling any lingering doubts. The left-arm pacer expressed his deep bond with Babar Azam, likening him to family.
This gesture from Shaheen Afridi garnered widespread support from netizens who saw it as a resounding response to critics and those who had been propagating false stories about the players. As Babar Azam prepares to lead Pakistan in their pursuit of a second 50-over World Cup title, Shaheen Afridi is set to spearhead the country's formidable pace attack, widely acknowledged as one of the most potent in the world.
Pakistan's journey in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is scheduled to commence on October 6 with a match against the Netherlands. Subsequently, they will face Sri Lanka on October 10, followed by a highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals India on October 14.