Former India cricketer Yograj Singh criticized Pakistani cricket legends for not supporting the country’s youth development, accusing them of prioritizing money over national pride. Following Pakistan’s disappointing finish in the Champions Trophy, ending without a win, he contrasted their retired players with India’s, who actively nurture future talent. Yograj expressed his willingness to assist the Pakistan national team if permitted by Indian authorities. He reflected on the historical ties between India and Pakistan, highlighting India’s strong performance in the tournament, deeming them “unbeatable,” and predicted a final between India and New Zealand.
Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh has criticized Pakistan’s cricket legends for failing to support the country’s youth development programs, accusing them of “abusing” their nation solely to earn “money”. Pakistan’s last Group A match against Bangladesh was called off due to rain in Rawalpindi on Thursday, resulting in them finishing their Champions Trophy campaign without a win. With just one point from a washout, Pakistan concluded their first home tournament in nearly three decades at the bottom of their group. “The issue with Pakistan is that all the retired players, such as Wasim Akram, Shoaib Akhtar, Waqar Younis, or Inzamam-ul-Haq—whom I respect greatly—have not done enough. The key difference between India and Pakistan is that players like Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, and Yuvraj Singh have actively contributed to the development of future Indian players.
“I have immense love for my country, which is why I was prepared to sacrifice my son, who battled cancer; yet they don’t share the same fervor. They compare themselves to India but lack the patriotism to say ‘We have made enough money’ and invest in training the next generation.
“Imran Khan laid the groundwork for all these players, but they don’t have the decency to visit him in jail. They are the type to criticize their country for financial gain,” Yograj expressed to IANS.
After transitioning to coaching following his playing career, Yograj has offered his assistance to the Pakistan national team, pending approval from both the Indian government and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
“We were united 75 years ago; we may have been separated, but love endures. I would be more than willing to assist any team in need. If Pakistan extends an offer, I will only accept if both the government and BCCI grant their approval,” he stated.
While Pakistan faced the humiliation of being knocked out without a single victory, their long-time rivals India progressed to the semi-finals after winning against Bangladesh and Pakistan in their first two matches.
The Rohit Sharma-led team has performed remarkably well, excelling with both bat and ball. Yograj further emphasized his belief that India is ‘unbeatable.’
“India is an unbeatable team. We currently lack Bumrah; otherwise, it would have been a completely one-sided tournament. I predict that New Zealand and India will reach the final,” he mentioned.
India is set to face New Zealand in their final Group A match on March 2.
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