The Asia Cup 2025 has been marred with several controversies, especially surrounding the India versus Pakistan match, which was held on September 14. As the two teams are now set to lock horns once again in the Super Four stage of the continental tournament, the talks around it continues while a cloud of uncertainty looms over the upcoming game, set to be played in Dubai on Sunday, September 21.
Amidst this, former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi once again hogged the limelight while hitting out at former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan. The former Pakistan skipper slammed Pathan for his dog meat story, which the latter had told in an interview on Lallantop in August. Afridi claimed it to be a lie while recalling the altercation from India’s
tour of Pakistan in 2006.
What should I respond to this lie?: Shahid Afridi hits out at Irfan Pathan
Speaking on a local media channel Samaa TV, Afridi called the statements from Irfan Pathan “lie” while adding that the former Indian cricketer should come and speak this on his face. “I consider those people men who can say things face to face and who will look me in the eye. He keeps talking behind my back. I can only respond if he says things to my face. How do I respond to his lies? What should I respond to this lie?” Afridi remarked. “I think he’s trying to prove that he is a great Indian and how I’m against Pakistanis. He will need to keep proving that he is a great Indian throughout his life, you'll see," he concluded.
Watch Shahid Afridi blast at Irfan Pathan over “dog meat” claims:
Afridi has eaten dog meat, he has been barking for so long: Irfan Pathan
It is to be noted that back in August 2025, Pathan recounted an incident that took place during a flight, where he felt provoked by Shahid Afridi's behaviour. According to Pathan, Afridi was being condescending and addressed him as “kid” in the presence of Abdul Razzaq. “He asked me, ‘How are you, kid?’ I thought, since when did he become my father?” Pathan said. “After that, Afridi continued to irritate me by saying unpleasant things. His seat was near mine. I asked Razzaq, what kinds of meat Pakistanis ate, and whether dog meat was available," Pathan continued.
"Hearing me, a surprised Razzaq questioned back, 'Hey Irfan, why are you asking this?’ I replied that he (Afridi) has eaten dog meat, he has been barking for so long. After this, Afridi could not say anything. If he had said anything, I would have said, ‘Look, he is barking more,’” Pathan said. While Afridi’s recent remarks have seem to reignite the controversy, after the two have time and again been involved in war of words on social media over the years.
