‘Hookah’ Controversy Reignites: Irfan Pathan Responds to Viral Video and Alleged MS Dhoni Dig

An interview conducted five years ago with Irfan Pathan has resurfaced, sparking significant debate on social media and stirring a reaction from the former cricketer. The interview, originally conducted during the COVID-19 lockdown, has been interpreted by many as containing a veiled criticism of former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The comment in question centers around a statement Pathan made about not engaging in certain habits, leading to speculation about Dhoni’s off-field behavior. The video, originally published by Sports Tak, captured Pathan reflecting on the 2008 Commonwealth Bank Series in Australia. The specific comment that fueled the controversy was Pathan’s statement: “I do not have the habit of smoking hookah in someone’s room or talking about it. Everyone knows. Sometimes it is better if you do not talk about it. The job of a cricketer is to perform well on the field and I used to focus on this.” This statement was interpreted as a potential reference to Dhoni, sparking a wave of opinions. Subsequently, fan reactions varied greatly, with some defending Dhoni and criticizing Pathan, while others saw the comment as validation of long-standing rumors. Pathan responded to the viral nature of the video on X (formerly Twitter), expressing frustration and suggesting that the context of his statement had been distorted. He also responded playfully to a fan’s question about the “hookah,” hinting at the possibility of friendly relations with Dhoni. The history between Pathan and Dhoni, who were once known to be close, has added complexity to the current situation. While some defend Pathan’s statement as being focused on professionalism, others see it differently. The controversy shows how deeply the cricketing world is connected to its players and the narratives that surround them. The truth of Pathan’s intentions remains uncertain, leaving fans to draw their own conclusions.