Yograj vs Ashwin: '...Then I'll shave off my beard' — Which statement by Ashwin regarding Arjun Tendulkar did Yograj lash out at?

A major debate has erupted surrounding Arjun Tendulkar ahead of the 2026 IPL season. Following his inclusion in the Lucknow Super Giants squad, questions were raised regarding his prospects of making the playing XI—a situation that has now drawn a sharp reaction from former cricketer and Yuvraj Singh's father, Yograj Singh.

Ashwin Expresses Doubt

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin stated that it would be difficult for Arjun Tendulkar to secure a spot in the Lucknow Super Giants' playing XI. He noted that the team already boasts a strong lineup of fast bowlers—including Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan, and Mohammed Shami—making it challenging for Arjun to carve out an opportunity. Ashwin remarked, "Unless a significant number of bowlers get injured, I don't see Arjun getting a game."

Yograj Singh Hits Back

Former cricketer Yograj Singh was incensed by Ashwin's statement. Speaking to Inside Sports, Yograj delivered a scathing retort to Ashwin, stating, "He is talking absolute nonsense. Who is Ashwin to say such things? He needs to understand how one should speak about another person. Sitting on television and declaring that someone 'can't do this' or 'can't do that'... who on earth are *you* to make such pronouncements?"

A Different Perspective on Arjun's Role

Yograj Singh, who has previously coached Arjun, believes that he is being misidentified solely as a bowler. He asserted that Arjun possesses strong batting capabilities and, given the right guidance, has the potential to evolve into an exceptional all-rounder. Yograj remarked, "It is inappropriate when cricketers make such comments. The fact that he is Sachin Tendulkar's son is a separate matter entirely. When he was training under me, I told Yuvraj, 'You guys are focusing on the wrong aspects regarding Arjun. He isn't merely a bowler.' He has had issues with his spine, and his bowling action is also distinct. When he was here, I would speak with him—and I even confronted his coaches—asking, 'What exactly are you people doing?' When he batted, he played some magnificent shots. If you are incapable of grooming him correctly, then simply send him to me." Arjun's IPL Record and a Fresh Start

Yograj went so far as to claim, "If Arjun trains with me for six months, he can surpass the world's top batsmen. If that doesn't happen, I will shave off my beard. That is how I operate." Sachin Tendulkar's son, Arjun Tendulkar, spent three seasons with the Mumbai Indians. In IPL 2023, he took three wickets across four matches, whereas in 2024, he did not receive many opportunities. Now, LSG has acquired him for ₹30 lakh, a move that is expected to give a new direction to his career.