Shahid Afridi, the former Pakistani cricket sensation, is not just known for his explosive batting or lethal spin bowling but also for his knack for controversy. From biting cricket balls to making politically charged remarks, Afridi has been embroiled in numerous contentious situations throughout his career. In this article, we delve into the top 10 controversies that have surrounded Shahid Afridi, shedding light on the incidents that have both captivated and polarized cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
In 2016, Afridi stirred controversy by claiming Pakistan lacked talent, igniting backlash from fans and a notice from the PCB. He later clarified his statement but faced criticism.
During a 2018 event, Afridi was filmed allegedly chewing tobacco, sparking media criticism. Afridi refuted the claims, stating he consumed fennel seeds and cloves instead.
Afridi faced a lawsuit from Master Beverages in 2019 for breaching an endorsement agreement with a rival company, leading to a hefty Rs. 60,000,000 claim.
Afridi's declaration in 2019, barring his daughters from outdoor sports due to conservative beliefs, sparked controversy and drew ire from feminists and the public.
During LPL 2021, Afridi engaged in a heated altercation with Afghan player Naveen-ul-Haq, tarnishing his image as a senior cricketer.
Afridi's frequent comments on the Kashmir issue, including jabs at Indian PM Modi, drew criticism for being politically charged and inappropriate.
Questions about Afridi's real age persisted, with discrepancies between his claimed birth year and official records raising doubts about his debut and achievements.
Afridi's verbal sparring with Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir escalated during an India-Pakistan match, reflecting his penchant for mind games.
Afridi faced a ban for tampering with the ball during a T20 match between Pakistan and Australia, tarnishing his reputation as a fair player.
Afridi's controversial remarks, from questioning Indian hearts to sexist comments about women's roles, consistently fueled debates and condemnation.