Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram has personally addressed the false reports of his death circulating on social media for the past few days, dismissing the claims as fake news in a video message shared online.
The rumors stemmed from an AI-generated video featuring Akram’s former teammate Shoaib Akhtar, which went viral showing him announcing Akram’s death. In the clip, an AI-generated version of Akhtar could be seen saying, “I regret to inform you that famous cricketer Wasim Akram has died of a heart attack.”
Taking to X, Akram said that the hoax should have been easy for anyone to spot. “If people don’t understand fake news in this day and age, then forget about us oldies getting it,” he said.
“21-gun salute for those asking me on social media if I am alive or not. No, I am making this video after death.”
Akram then turned his attention to whoever came up with the video. “Whoever created these fake videos, it takes just one second to verify the facts, so why couldn’t you figure that out? Whoever made this must have worked hard on it, using names like Afridi and other big names to spread this story about me.”
He closed with a mix of sarcasm and gratitude.
“If these people used their minds on something productive, they would be very successful in life. But there is a Punjabi saying that loading a donkey with books does not make it a scholar. You actually have to want to learn, and that takes real wisdom. But thank you for your concern. I am fine. Thank you.”
Akram’s statement follows an earlier rubbishing of said claims by his wife Shaniera Akram, who moved quickly to shut down the rumours after the videos and posts went viral, sparking concern among fans around the world.
Shaniera also shared a video that showed Akram exercising and smiling directly at the camera.
