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Kerala alumni group apologizes for uninvited Shahid Afridi appearance at Dubai event

The Cochin University B.Tech Alumni Association said the cricketer’s presence was unplanned, apologizing for any offense following widespread online criticism of his anti-India remarks.

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In a widely circulated video on social media, Afridi is seen being welcomed on stage by the community amid loud cheers.
As former Pakistani cricketers Shahid Afridi and Umar Gul arrived, the community members paused their cultural performance and broke into chants of “Boom Boom.

Overview

  • On May 25 at the Pakistan Association Dubai auditorium, CUBAA organizers welcomed former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi amid chants of “Boom Boom.”
  • The warm reception drew backlash after Afridi blamed Indian security forces for failing to prevent the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
  • CUBAA clarified that Afridi and ex-teammate Umar Gul arrived without invitation while attending a Guinness World Record event at the same venue.
  • In a May 30 statement, the alumni association expressed deep regret and apologized for any hurt caused by the cricketer’s unplanned appearance.
  • The apology has eased some criticism, though netizens continue to debate the community’s decision to host Afridi.