PCB Denies Shaheen-Salman Rift Claims, Calls Them 'Damaging

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a strong statement denying viral social media claims of a clash between star pacer Shaheen Afridi, captain Salman Ali Agha, and coach Mike Hesson. Dismissing the reports as "baseless and fabricated," the PCB warned of legal action against those spreading what it called a "malicious defamation campaign" aimed at disrupting team harmony.

Key Details:

The PCB called the viral post on X (formerly Twitter) "entirely fictitious"

Emphasized no such incident occurred during training or matches

Team currently playing T20Is vs West Indies in Florida (Shaheen took key catch in 1st match)

Comes as new captain Salman Agha leads prep for Asia Cup

PCB Statement Highlights:

"These rumors were deliberately concocted to sow discord...PCB will hold propagators fully accountable under applicable laws."

The board's unusually harsh response underscores its effort to maintain stability ahead of major tournaments. Pakistan won their T20I series opener against WI by defending 178 runs.