Yograj Singh takes a sharp dig at Saqlain Mushtaq over India-Pakistan rivalry

Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh has strongly criticized former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq for his recent remarks about testing India’s strength against Pakistan. Saqlain had suggested that India should play 10 Tests, 10 ODIs, and 10 T20Is against Pakistan to prove which team is superior. His statement received widespread backlash, particularly after India secured a historic four-wicket win over New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 final.

Responding to Saqlain’s comments, Yograj dismissed the idea, stating that Pakistan should first try competing against India’s ‘B’ team before making such claims.

"I read Saqlain's comment. What are you trying to prove? They don’t know how to appreciate a good team. They just talk without substance. A lot of mouths were shut today. They haven’t learned in 78 years. What can I teach them? People who keep berating their own players—what can you teach them?" Yograj told ANI.

He further added, "Pakistan should learn how to run a country from India and its government. When India plays them, it feels like a match against a local team. They should first try competing against our ‘B’ team before talking about playing against our main squad."

Pakistan’s disappointing Champions Trophy campaign

While India celebrated yet another ICC triumph, Pakistan endured yet another disastrous tournament. The defending champions crashed out in the group stage, marking their third consecutive ICC event where they failed to progress beyond the opening round.

For the first time in 29 years, an ICC global event was scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan. However, due to security concerns, the final was relocated to Dubai, where India clinched their third Champions Trophy title. Pakistan’s campaign, on the other hand, ended in disappointment after suffering a 60-run defeat to New Zealand, dashing their hopes of advancing.

Pakistan’s struggles and early exit

With Pakistan’s title defense hanging by a thread, their must-win clash against India became a crucial fixture. However, they failed to rise to the occasion, succumbing to an uninspired performance that ended their chances of making it to the knockout stage.

Pakistan then found themselves relying on Bangladesh to defeat New Zealand and keep their hopes alive. However, the Kiwis shut the door on both teams with a convincing five-wicket victory, ensuring Pakistan’s early exit.

Adding to their woes, their final group-stage match against Bangladesh was washed out due to persistent rain, sealing their fate in the tournament.

After their dismal performance, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to make significant changes to its white-ball squad in preparation for future ICC events. The team will undergo a restructuring process aimed at revamping their approach to international cricket.

Pakistan’s consistent struggles in global tournaments have raised concerns among fans and former cricketers, many of whom have called for drastic measures to restore the team’s former glory. However, with mounting criticism and pressure, the road ahead for Pakistan cricket remains uncertain.

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