Wed Apr 16 01:45:19 UTC 2025: ## Cricket Legends Clash Over Legacy of Pakistan’s Past

**LAHORE, PAKISTAN** – A heated debate has erupted in Pakistan cricket circles, pitting former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar against former all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez over the legacy of past generations of players. The disagreement centers on whether the era of legendary bowlers Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, despite their dominance, truly left a lasting legacy due to a lack of ICC trophies.

Hafeez ignited the controversy by suggesting that the 1990s era, while producing brilliant performances, ultimately fell short by failing to secure an ICC title. He contrasted this with the 2009 T20 World Cup victory under Younis Khan, which he argued provided a more significant legacy.

Akhtar vehemently refuted Hafeez’s claims during a recent PSL television appearance. He highlighted the numerous matches won by Akram and Younis, estimating the pair’s combined win count at over 60. He questioned Hafeez’s assertion that they left no legacy, countering with a pointed, “Then who left a legacy? You?”

While acknowledging Pakistan’s near-misses in major tournaments during Akram and Younis’ prime, it’s important to note that Akram was part of the victorious 1992 World Cup team. Hafeez himself contributed to Pakistan’s success, playing a role in the 2017 Champions Trophy win and reaching the 2007 T20 World Cup final. The exchange underscores the complex debate surrounding defining cricketing legacy, with success measured not just by trophies but also by individual and team achievements.

Read More