Sylhet, May 18, 2026: Pakistan red-ball bowling coach Umar Gul has dismissed speculation surrounding a viral social media video that appeared to show a heated exchange with fast bowler Shaheen Afridi during the second Test against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
The clip circulating online sparked widespread debate, with some users suggesting a possible altercation between the player and coaching staff. However, no verified evidence supported claims of any internal dispute within the squad.
Addressing the situation, Gul clarified that there was no disagreement or disciplinary issue within the team, stressing that the incident had been misinterpreted on social media.
He explained that pacer Hasan Ali had suffered a head injury and was temporarily off the field, and that Shaheen Afridi was simply being informed about the player’s condition as part of routine on-field communication.
“There was a misunderstanding on social media regarding Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali. Hasan Ali had suffered a head injury and was off the field, and Shaheen was simply informed about the situation. There is no issue, but it was misinterpreted online,” Gul clarified.
The clarification comes as the match situation intensified in Sylhet, where Bangladesh set Pakistan a challenging target of 427 runs in the second Test.
Bangladesh’s innings was anchored by a commanding century from Mushfiqur Rahim, who scored 137 off 233 balls, supported by Litton Das (69) and Mahmudul Hasan Joy (52).
In response, Pakistan safely negotiated the final overs of day three without loss, reaching 0 without loss in two overs. Openers Abdullah Fazal and Azan Awais will resume the record chase on Tuesday.
