Former Pakistan cricket captain Waqar Younis has issued a strong response to recent comments made by ex-cricketer Mohammad Hafeez, who questioned the legacy of Pakistan’s cricket stars from the 1990s and early 2000s. Hafeez’s remarks, made during a live television discussion, sparked a heated debate within the cricketing community.
Hafeez’s Criticism
Hafeez criticized the inability of the 1990s cricket legends to win major ICC tournaments, citing their losses in the 1996, 1999, and 2003 World Cups. He argued that these players, despite their immense talent, failed to inspire future generations by not securing ICC titles. Hafeez contrasted this with the achievements of later teams, such as the 2009 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy victories, which he claimed provided a stronger legacy for Pakistan cricket.
Waqar’s Fiery Response
In response, Waqar Younis took to social media to defend his era, sharing statistics that highlighted the accomplishments of himself and fellow fast-bowling legend Wasim Akram. Waqar captioned his post with “90’s KA LONDA” (Boys of the 90s), emphasizing their contributions to Pakistan cricket. He listed their combined achievements, including over 1,700 international wickets and numerous match-winning performances.
Waqar’s post resonated with fans who fondly remember the dominance of Pakistan’s bowling attack during the 1990s. Many supporters rallied behind Waqar, praising the impact he and his contemporaries had on the game.
Broader Implications
The exchange between Hafeez and Waqar comes at a time when Pakistan cricket is under scrutiny following a disappointing campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The team failed to progress beyond the group stage, finishing at the bottom of their group with just one point. This poor performance has reignited discussions about the legacy and future of Pakistan cricket.
As the debate continues, Waqar’s response serves as a reminder of the significant contributions made by the 1990s stars, even if their era lacked ICC silverware. The cricketing world watches closely as Pakistan navigates its path forward.
