Shahid Afridi’s cricket career kicked off in the 90s, and so did rumors about his love life. The former Pakistan captain allegedly had a soft spot for Indian actress Sonali Bendre. Afridi was touring India with his team when rumors of their relationship started circulating. However, both Afridi and Bendre kept mum about it.
Recently, Afridi was asked about his alleged affair with Bendre. With a chuckle, he replied, “I’m a grandfather now. No point in discussing old news.” He brushed off the rumors, but back in the day, their supposed romance was all the rage.
It wasn’t just Afridi who was smitten with Bendre. Pakistan’s fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar was also head over heels for the Indian actress. Rumors claimed he even planned to kidnap her. Akhtar allegedly carried a photo of Bendre in his wallet, and she had become the crush of many Pakistani cricketers. Yet, Bendre never commented on the matter.
Bendre tied the knot with Goldie Behl on November 12, 2002, and they have a son named Ranveer. Afridi, on the other hand, married Nadia in 2000 and has five daughters. It seems both Afridi and Bendre have moved on from their rumored romance, focusing on their families instead.
Afridi’s response to the rumors might have been brushed off, but it’s clear that his alleged affair with Bendre remains an interesting footnote in his career. The cricketer’s charm and good looks might have won over many fans, but it’s his on-field performances that continue to inspire a new generation of players.