Yograj Singh criticizes Ravichandran Ashwin over comments on Arjun Tendulkar ahead of IPL 2026

Building of; construction of ipl 2026 The season has taken an explosive turn, not because of the action on the field, but because of a heated war of words between two of the most outspoken personalities of Indian cricket. Controversy erupted when veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared a blunt assessment of Arjun TendulkarThere is potential in his new franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This led to strong protests Yograj SinghFormer Indian cricketer and renowned coach, who has previously worked with Arjun to hone his skills. As LSG prepares for a new chapter under its revamped roster, the debate over the young all-rounder’s place in the team has become the focal point of pre-season discussion.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s tactical strategy on Arjun Tendulkar’s narrow path for LSG XI

Ashwin, known for his deeply analytical approach towards the game, recently sparked debate while discussing the possible starting lineup of Lucknow Super Giants for the 2026 season. After a trade Arjun left from there Mumbai Indians In return to LSG Shardul ThakurMany wondered whether the change of scenery would give the left-arm fast bowler more game time. However, Ashwin rejected the idea citing the depth of Lucknow’s pace attack.

“Arjun Tendulkar will not play (Arjun Tendulkar will not play at all),” Ashwin said, stressing that the competition for places is very tough. Ashwin pointed to a strong fast bowler comprising of experienced players Mohammed Shamiexpress speed of Mayank Yadavreliable pair of and mohsin khan And Avesh Khan. In Ashwin’s view, with such high-caliber options available, the tactical scope to include Arjun, who has managed only three wickets in his five IPL matches so far, is virtually non-existent. As for Ashwin, the numbers and roster depth suggest that Arjun will likely remain a bench option for the upcoming season.

Also read: Ravichandran Ashwin criticizes fan agenda, questions hero worship culture in Indian cricket

Yograj Singh targets Ashwin for not including Arjun in the preparations for IPL 2026

Yograj, never one to mince words, expressed serious displeasure over Ashwin’s public dismissal of the young cricketer. Speaking to InsideSport, Yograj made a scathing attack on the experienced off-spinner and questioned his right to pass such definitive judgment on a developing player.

He argued that Ashwin should be more careful about how he speaks about a person’s career and potential. Yograj expressed his dislike for experts criticizing players on television, commenting, “He should know what to talk to someone about. Someone is sitting at the television and talking, ‘Oh, he can’t do this, he can’t do that. Who are you? what you?“

Yograj’s defense went beyond mere rhetoric; He provided a technical perspective on the development of Arjuna. Having mentored Arjun in the past, Yograj revealed that many people are looking at the youngster in the wrong light. He revealed that Arjun had previously suffered from spinal problems, which affected his bowling mechanics, particularly his arm direction.

“He is the son of Sachin Tendulkar; That’s a different story. When he was here I told Yuvi that you all are wrongly focusing on Arjun Tendulkar. He is not a bowler, he has spinal problems and his arms bend below 45 degreesYograj added, suggesting that Arjun’s true ability as an all-rounder is often overshadowed by his surname.

Despite Arjun making a modest comeback for Goa in the 2025–26 domestic season, where he struggled for consistency in both Vijay Hazare And ranji trophiesYograj is adamant that young Tendulkar has untapped talent that critics like Ashwin are failing to see.

Also read: SWOT analysis of Lucknow Super Giants: LSG’s report card ahead of IPL 2026