In a recent episode of the “OutSide Edge Live” show, former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Hafeez sparked controversy by asserting that Pakistan’s celebrated 1990s cricket generation failed to leave a lasting legacy. He highlighted their inability to secure ICC tournament victories post the 1992 World Cup, noting losses in the 1996, 1999, and 2003 editions. Hafeez remarked, “They were mega superstars, but they couldn’t inspire us by winning an ICC event” .
Shoaib Akhtar, a prominent figure from that era, countered Hafeez’s claims by emphasizing Pakistan’s dominant head-to-head record against India during the 1990s. He stated, “These 73 one-dayers that Pakistan won against India, it is us who won it” . Akhtar also challenged the notion of abundant talent in current Pakistani cricket, suggesting that if such talent existed, it would have manifested in recent performances .
Following the backlash, Hafeez clarified that his comments were not personal attacks but observations on the team’s performance in major tournaments. He emphasized that his intent was to discuss the importance of winning ICC events to inspire future generations .
This exchange underscores the ongoing debate about the impact and legacy of Pakistan’s cricket teams across different eras.
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