A heated debate has erupted in Pakistan’s cricketing circles after former captain Mohammad Hafeez questioned the legacy of 90s cricket stars. Legendary pacer Wasim Akram hit back, dismissing Hafeez’s remarks, while Waqar Younis also stepped in to defend his era.
The controversy followed Pakistan’s dismal ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, where they failed to win a single match despite hosting the tournament. In his analysis, Hafeez not only criticized the current squad but also claimed the 90s legends failed to inspire future generations by winning ICC trophies.
“They didn’t win an ICC event in 1996, 1999, or 2003. We reached the final once (1999 vs. Australia) but lost badly. They were mega superstars, but they couldn’t inspire by winning a trophy,” Hafeez stated.
Wasim Akram, a key figure of that era, dismissed the criticism:
“I can say a lot of things, but I don’t want to give them attention. These people are out of my life, and I don’t want to take their names.”
Waqar Younis responded more directly, sharing a post highlighting his and Akram’s combined 1,705 wickets and 8,594 runs, subtly reminding Hafeez of their contributions to Pakistan cricket.
The debate has divided opinions—some agree with Hafeez’s argument about Pakistan’s lack of ICC trophies, while others believe the 90s team laid the foundation for the country’s cricketing dominance, including the 1992 World Cup victory.