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Yograj Singh, Yuvraj Singh's father and a former cricket player for India, slammed former Pakistani stars, Wasim Akram and Shoaib Akhtar, saying he was disappointed by their constant criticism and mockery of the senior national men's squad. Legendary Pakistani cricketers were criticized by Yograj for putting money and commentary ahead of coaching young players, who he claimed needed direction more than ever. In a daring challenge, Yograj Singh asserted that he could enhance Pakistan's players and fix their game in a year.
His comments coincide with the heavily criticized Pakistani team, captained by Muhammad Rizwan, for its dismal Champions Trophy 2025 results. After losing to New Zealand and India, Rizwan's team was eliminated from the semi-final race, ending Pakistan's title defence in just six days.
Pakistan broke under pressure in a must-win match against India in Dubai on February 23. After winning the toss, they chose to bat; however, they lacked intent and could only score 241 runs. India easily chased down the mark with 45 balls remaining, and captain Muhammad Rizwan received a lot of flak for his lethargic performance. India defeated their opponents in the ICC competition once again thanks to Virat Kohli's effortless century and an outstanding start from Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill.
Yograj Singh on Pakistan legends
"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.
Following Shoaib Akhtar's live television statement that Pakistan no longer possesses any talent, Yograj Singh made scathing remarks against the former fast bowler. Akhtar persisted in comparing Babar Azam to Virat Kohli, Mohammad Rizwan to Rohit Sharma, and Khushdil Shah to Ravindra Jadeja, raising doubts about Pakistan's players' ability to compete with their Indian counterparts despite attempts by fellow panellists Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez to make an alternative argument.
Yograj rejected Akhtar's assertion, stating that rather than criticism, Pakistani players want appropriate coaching and direction. Citing Imran Khan as an example, he rejected the idea that Pakistan lacks potential and added that there is not a strong mentor figure for the current generation of cricket players.
"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"
Pakistan was the first host country to exit the Champions Trophy before making it to the knockout stage in sixteen years. Since they fell short of expectations at the 2023 World Cup in India, Pakistan has been performing poorly in ICC competitions. After a shocking loss to the United States last year, Pakistan was unable to advance past the T20 World Cup group stage.
