Yograj Singh vs Wasim Akram: Explaining beef between Yuvraj Singh’s dad and Pakistan legends

Yuvraj Singh's father, Yograj Singh was strongly criticized by legendary pacer Wasim Akram, over his comments on former Pakistani players.

Yograj Singh vs Wasim Akram: Explaining beef between Yuvraj Singh’s dad and Pakistan legends

Wasim Akram responded to Yograj Singh's criticism of him and Pakistani legends not helping young players. (via Mint)

Ex-Indian cricket team star Yuvraj Singh‘s father Yograj Singh has once again garnered controversy, after having ensued in a banter with Pakistani legend Wasim Akram. The legendary strongly reacted to Yograj’s criticism of former Pakistani players.

Yograj Singh has often been at the center of controversy. He most recently fell out with Wasim Akram and Shoaib Akhtar. Father of one of India’s greatest all-rounders, Yograj publicly called out the two former pacers for prioritizing media work over mentoring Pakistan’s young cricketers. He lamented them for using harsh words against the current side for money, following their humiliating Champions Trophy exit.

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Wasim Akram dismissed the criticism, while strongly responding to it by reiterating his desire to help the Pakistani national team, amid recent struggles. Akram opened up about it on a ‘DP World Dressing Room’ cricket analysis show, as he lashed out at Yograj for questioning their role behind the scenes. The Pakistani legend remarks clearly highlighted the challenges former players face in taking up coaching roles.

The 58-year-old cited fellow Pakistani cricketing legend Waqar Younis‘ example, while talking about coaching positions. He highlighted the disrespectful treatment of Pakistani legends, if they take up coaching assignments with the national team. Despite the challenges associated with it, Akram whole-heartedly expressed his intent to help Pakistani players, free of cost, and organize training camps.

When I see Pakistani coaches, I see Waqar [Younis] here, who has been sacked quite a few times after becoming a coach. You guys disrespect them, I cannot tolerate it… I want to help Pakistan cricket, free of cost.

Wasim Akram responds to Yograj Singh’s criticism (H/T NDTV Sports)

Nonetheless, Wasim Akram did enjoy short coaching spells with IPL side Kolkata Knight Riders, and PSL sides Islamabad United, Multan Sultans and Karachi Kings. Moreover, he was pivotal behind helping young Pakistani pacers, including Mohammad Amir and Junaid Khan.

Pakistan cricket legends Shahid Afridi and Wasim Akram clash over team changes post-Champions Trophy exit

Pakistan had a disastrous 2025 ICC Champions Trophy outing, as they bowed out of the competition in the group stages. It also ended the team’s hopes of winning a major title on home soil, as they hosted an ICC event in Pakistan after 30 long years.

Shahid Afridi and Wasim Akram
Pakistani legends Shahid Afridi and Wasim Akram clashed after the national team’s early Champions Trophy exit. (via ESPN)

Wasim Akram launched a furious rant aimed at skipper Mohammad Rizwan, while also suggesting the ouster of 6 to 7 players and a complete overhaul. He stated the need to let go of under-performing players. However, his comments did not hold well with former captain Shahid Afridi, who went on to state that so many players cannot be dropped at a go, as Pakistan lacks a bench strength to replace them.

I was listening to Wasim Akram that day. Yes, we all got carried away by emotions… Wasim bhai, I just have one question for you. Do you 6-7 players on the bench who can replace them?

Shahid Afridi on Wasim Akram’s criticism (via Samaa TV)

Moreover, Afridi also urged Wasim Akram and other Pakistani greats to not get carried away, following their recent CT humiliation. Nonetheless, the team failed to win a single match in the competition this summer, instead losing to arch-rivals India, and New Zealand.