Overview:
Hesson and captain Salman were unhappy with Shaheen’s behaviour and had discussed the issue with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The PCB has firmly rejected these allegations.
On Thursday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a firm statement denying social media rumours that claimed a conflict between pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi and white-ball captain Salman Ali Agha, and head coach Mike Hesson. The PCB described these claims as “false, concocted, and damaging,” and made it clear that legal action would be taken against those responsible for spreading them.
Earlier, a post had circulated widely online, alleging that coach Hesson and captain Salman were unhappy with Shaheen’s behaviour and had discussed the issue with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The PCB has firmly rejected these allegations.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board firmly rejected the unfounded, fabricated, and harmful claims circulating on social media regarding a supposed incident involving Shaheen Afridi, captain Salman Ali Agha, and a coaching staff member,” PCB said in official statement.
“The PCB confirms that no such incident has taken place during any training or practice sessions. These harmful rumours are completely false and seem to have been deliberately created with the intent to cause division within the national squad”
After the viral post, Shaheen Afridi faced backlash, with rumours of dressing room tensions spreading. The controversy risked overshadowing the team’s ongoing tour of the West Indies.
The PCB regards this as a deliberate and harmful defamation campaign aimed at undermining the professional integrity of the individuals involved and the overall team dynamic. Those found responsible for spreading these false claims will be held fully accountable under the law.” the statement added
“The PCB is dedicated to safeguarding its players, staff, and the integrity of the national team from unnecessary and damaging rumours,” it further added.