'Cannot tolerate disrespect' - Wasim Akram responds to Yograj Singh's criticism

Former Pakistan cricketing legend Wasim Akram has hit back at Yograj Singh after the former Indian cricketer accused him and Shoaib Akhtar of earning money from commentary rather than helping their nation's struggling cricket team. Akram clarified that he is always available to help the Pakistan team but ruled out a full-time coaching role due to personal reasons. 

Pakistan’s early exit from the Champions Trophy 2025 triggered immense criticism from fans and former players. The team, which finished the tournament without a single win, faced backlash, especially after their loss to arch-rivals India. After that, Yograj questioned why former Pakistan greats like Akram and Akhtar were not coming forward to mentor the current squad. He even mentioned that, if offered, he would go and coach the Pakistan team.

In an interview with Ten Sports, Akram addressed the same, revealing that he has always been willing to contribute to Pakistan cricket but is unwilling to take on a full-time role due to personal responsibilities.

"If you organise a camp and want me there, I will be there. If you need me to spend time with the cricketers ahead of a major tournament, I will do that. But I am 58 years old, and at this stage of my life, I have a family have a 10-year-old daughter and two sons. I need to spend time with them. That said, I am always available. Free of charge, I will give my time," Akram said.

Akram also expressed his frustration with how former players like Waqar Younis have been treated when they took up coaching roles.

"People still, on and off, criticise me or take digs at me, saying all I do is talk and nothing else. When I see Pakistan coaches- like Waqar here, who has been sacked multiple times after becoming a coach- and how they are treated, I cannot tolerate the disrespect. I want to help Pakistan cricket. Why do you want to pay me? I am available free of charge," he added.

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I do not want to face insults at this stage of my life: Wasim Akram

Akram mentioned his family commitments, particularly his young children, as a reason why he cannot take up a full-time coaching position. The former said if he commits to something he would love to give his full attention and time to it.

"But I do not want to face insults at this stage of my life. I cannot tolerate it. I am 58 years old. I cannot take unnecessary stress. I want to be with my 10-year-old daughter. I have not seen them for two months, and I miss them. I want to do a proper job. If I commit to something, it means I have to be there 24/7. I cannot just be there for two days and then that would not be fair to the job. That is the reason," he added.