Dubai’s Kerala Expats Say Afridi, Gul Gate-Crashed Event: ‘Couldn’t Ask Them To Leave’

Last Updated:May 31, 2025, 15:43 IST

Cochin University alumni group in Dubai says it did not invite former Pakistan cricketers, who arrived at the event without prior notice.

Dubai-based Kerala expat group distances itself from Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi visit after social media uproar over his presence at cultural event. (IMAGE: X)

The Cochin University BTech Alumni Association (CUBAA) has clarified that former Pakistan cricketers Shahid Afridi and Umar Gul appeared uninvited at their cultural event in Dubai last week, saying the organisers were caught off guard and “couldn’t ask them to leave."

The cricketers showed up at Ormachuvadukal Season 2, an inter-collegiate dance competition hosted by CUBAA at the Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD) on May 25. The group said their presence was unsolicited and came just as the event was winding up.

In viral videos from the event, Afridi can be seen stepping on stage to loud cheers and chants of “Boom Boom," his nickname from his playing days. The 47-year-old responded to the crowd saying, “Hogaya Boom Boom," prompting further applause.

Afridi’s appearance has drawn backlash online, particularly because it comes weeks after he made disparaging remarks about India following the Pahalgam terror attack. Afridi has frequently criticised India and made politically loaded statements, especially on Kashmir.

CUBAA has maintained that the event was entirely cultural in nature and that no political undertone was intended. “We would like to formally address recent concerns… These cricketers made an unannounced and unsolicited appearance at our event," the organisers said in a statement.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)

News india Dubai’s Kerala Expats Say Afridi, Gul Gate-Crashed Event: ‘Couldn’t Ask Them To Leave’