Shahid Afridi has reignited controversy just days before the much-hyped India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025. The former Pakistan captain revisited the abandoned World Championship of Legends (WCL) fixture between the two arch-rivals, taking a veiled dig at some Indian players by suggesting that “few are still trying to prove they are Hindustani.”

Speaking on Samaa TV, Shahid Afridi admitted he is still puzzled by India Legends’ decision to pull out of the WCL match despite all preparations being in place.

“I have always maintained that cricket should continue because it helps improve relations between the two nations. The sport has become commercial, yes, but in England, people had bought tickets for this game and both teams had practised. Then suddenly, they (India Legends) didn’t play. I fail to understand the thinking behind it,” Shahid Afridi remarked.

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The former all-rounder also revisited his infamous ‘bad egg’ comment aimed at a former Indian cricketer. Without naming names, Afridi hinted that this player ignored instructions from his captain not to post anything on social media.

“If I take the name now, he will be in trouble. His captain told him, ‘If you don’t want to play, don’t. But don’t post on social media.’ Yet, he had come with a purpose, and that’s why I called him a bad egg,” Shahid Afridi explained.

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The ex-Pakistan skipper further alleged that some players face severe backlash from fans, even threats to their families. “There are players who get threats like their houses will be burned down. Some are still busy proving they are Indian—ever since they were born, they have been proving it. And now those same players are doing commentary in the Asia Cup,” Shahid Afridi added.

With emotions already running high, Afridi’s latest remarks have only added more spice to the build-up of the India-Pakistan showdown.