David Warner Openly Insults Shaheen Afridi In Front Of Pakistan Media Ahead Of PSL

David Warner and Shaheen Afridi in frame [Source: AFP Photos]

Legendary Australian batter David Warner is set to play PSL 2026 for Karachi Kings. After his successful stint with the franchise in 2025, he will also captain the side. Ahead of Pakistan’s marquee tournament, which begins on March 26, the captains met for a press conference where Warner openly took a dig at Shaheen Afridi with a sharp remark.

PSL 2026 has already generated significant buzz due to its major revamp, including the recent auction and the addition of new teams like Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindi Pindiz. During the captain’s interaction, some unusual behaviour from Shaheen Afridi caught David Warner’s attention, prompting an immediate reaction.

Warner And Afridi’s Relationship On And Off The Field

Before diving into the latest exchange, it is worth noting that Warner and Afridi share a long-standing, playful on-field rivalry. Back in March 2022, the two had a stare-down during the third Test in Lahore, which eventually ended in laughter.

Later, during the Perth Test on December 23, the duo engaged in a verbal exchange, which David Warner later downplayed as friendly banter. In the previous PSL season as well, Warner had publicly poked fun at Shaheen Afridi for leading Lahore Qalandars with a spin-heavy attack against Karachi Kings.

While these moments have largely been light-hearted, the latest incident once again highlighted their friendly dynamic.

Also Read: Watch- Shaheen Afridi Triggered With Babar Azam Topic; Vents Anger On Pakistan Journalist

How David Warner Insulted Shaheen Afridi And Others At PSL Conference

During the PSL captains’ press conference at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Wednesday, March 25, Warner appeared visibly irritated while responding to a question.

He called out what he perceived as unprofessional behaviour from Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, and Saqib. As he was speaking, Shaheen was seen chatting with Saqib Shaquille, Mohammad Rizwan, and Marnus Labuschagne, which seemed to distract from the interaction.

Warner reacted by asking what was going on, remarking, “What’s wrong, gentlemen? Sorry, we’ve got some school kids here.” The trio, along with Marnus Labuschagne, then burst into laughter after Warner's comment.

Rushikesh Vadolkar

@RVadolkar

🗣️ “What’s wrong gentlemen? Sorry we’ve got some school kids here” - David Warner on guys being unprofessional at the captains day press conference

Mar 25, 2026, 7:14 PM

Despite the moment, the banter between Warner and Afridi remains friendly. Shaheen Shah Afridi-led team will be aiming for their fourth title this season and will look to dominate their opponents, including Warner’s Karachi Kings.

Karachi Kings Ready To Battle For The Second Title

Karachi Kings, led by David Warner, will feature key players such as Adam Zampa, Salman Agha, Moeen Ali, Hasan Ali, and Khushdil Shah. Warner had a strong PSL debut last year, scoring 368 runs in 11 matches at an average of 33.45 and a strike rate of 153.97.

However, despite his efforts, Karachi Kings failed to qualify for the semi-finals after suffering a narrow defeat to Shaheen Afridi-led Lahore Qalandars in the Eliminator at Gaddafi Stadium on May 22, 2025.

As of now, the Karachi Kings will lock horns against Lahore Qalandars on March 29 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

Also Read: Hyderabad Kingsmen Predicted Playing XI vs Lahore Qalandars, PSL 2026, Match 1