Abbas Afridi on Umar Gul: “Having a Test cricketer in the family definitely helps; you learn a lot, but you also get scolded… I often receive calls from him where he advises me and helps me improve”
Image taken by: Bimal Mirwani
Pakistan fast bowler Abbas Afridi said his uncle, former speedster Umar Gul, has played a significant role in his development.
He noted that Gul regularly offers him advice and encourages him to continue working on his bowling.
However, Afridi conceded that the 43-year-old, who represented Pakistan in 47 Tests, 130 ODIs and 60 T20Is, also scolds him when he fails to perform well or makes a mistake.
The 25-year-old has featured in 24 T20Is to date and done very well so far, claiming 38 wickets at an average of 15.52 and an economy rate of 8.48.
“Having a Test cricketer in the family definitely helps; you learn a lot, but you also get scolded… I often receive calls from him where he advises me and helps me improve,” he was quoted as saying by A Sports.
“I am often told [by my uncle] to focus more on my bowling, but I also work on my batting because there are situations where quick runs are needed in the final overs. I try to be ready for any situation.”
Afridi was last in action at the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he took eight wickets in eight matches for the Karachi Kings at an average of 31.37 and an economy rate of 11.23.