Former India cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, Yograj Singh, strongly criticized former Pakistan players, including Wasim Akram and Shoaib Akhtar, for their constant scrutiny and ridicule of the national team. He accused these legendary cricketers of prioritizing commentary and financial interests over mentoring young talent, emphasizing that Pakistan's players need proper guidance now more than ever.
In a bold statement, Yograj Singh claimed he could revamp Pakistan cricket and significantly improve their players within a year. His remarks come amid intense criticism of the Mohammad Rizwan-led side following their disappointing campaign in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Pakistan's title defense ended abruptly within six days, as defeats to New Zealand and India knocked them out of semi-final contention.
During a must-win encounter against India in Dubai on February 23, Pakistan faltered under pressure. After winning the toss and choosing to bat, they struggled to show intent, managing only 241 runs. Captain Mohammad Rizwan faced heavy criticism for his passive approach, while India chased the target with ease, securing victory with 45 balls to spare. Virat Kohli’s fluent century, along with a fiery start from Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, ensured yet another commanding ICC tournament triumph for India over their arch-rivals.
"Such big players like Wasim Akram-saying such disgusting things? And people around him are laughing. They should be ashamed. Shoaib Akhtar, such a big player-you are comparing Pakistan's players with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli? Wasim ji, you are sitting there and making money, no? Go back to your country and conduct a camp. I want to see which of you greats can help Pakistan win a World Cup. If not, resign," Yograj Singh told SportsNext.
"If I go there (to Pakistan), I will make the team better within a year. You will all remember me. It's all about passion. Yograj Singh gives 12 hours a day for training. You have to dedicate your blood and sweat to your countrymen, your players.
"Talking big while sitting in the commentary box doesn't make a difference," he added.
Yograj Singh took a sharp swipe at Shoaib Akhtar after the former fast bowler declared on live television that Pakistan no longer has any talent. Despite attempts by fellow panellists Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez to counter his argument, Akhtar persisted, drawing comparisons between Babar Azam and Virat Kohli, Mohammad Rizwan and Rohit Sharma, and Khushdil Shah and Ravindra Jadeja, questioning whether Pakistan’s players could match their Indian counterparts.
Dismissing Akhtar’s claims, Yograj Singh argued that Pakistan’s players require proper mentoring and guidance rather than relentless criticism. He rejected the notion that Pakistan lacks talent, pointing to the example of Imran Khan and stressing that the current generation of cricketers is missing a strong mentor figure.
"So many Pakistan players are there, sitting outside and talking about the team -- it doesn't paint a good picture. Have you ever seen ex-Indian players using such harsh words for their own team? It has a big effect. At a time when your players are low on confidence and the team's morale is going down, if they hear what you all are saying, they will be under even more pressure. You are all legends-they will listen to you," Yograj said.
"I am saying this to everyone. All these players came because of Imran Khan. Today, is there anyone like him to mentor youngsters? Tell Wasim Akram ji, Waqar Younis ji, and Shoaib Akhtar ji-you keep talking about talent. Pakistan is full of talent. You were also identified once. Someone helped you become good cricketers. I don't like anyone from any country using such words for their own players"
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