Yuvraj Singh, born on December 12, 1981, in Chandigarh, India, is a former Indian cricketer known for his aggressive batting style and handy left-arm spin bowling. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest limited-overs cricketers of all time.
Early Life and Background
- Birth: December 12, 1981, in Chandigarh, India.
- Family: Son of former Indian fast bowler and Punjabi actor Yograj Singh and Shabnam Singh.
- Early Interests: Yuvraj was initially more interested in tennis and roller skating. He even won the National Under-14 Roller Skating Championship, but his father insisted that he focus on cricket.
Cricket Career
Domestic Career:
- Debut: Yuvraj made his first-class debut in the 1997-98 season for Punjab against Orissa.
- Early Promise: His early performances in domestic cricket and the Under-19 World Cup in 2000 (where he was named Player of the Tournament) brought him into the national spotlight.
International Career:
- ODI Debut: October 3, 2000, against Kenya in the ICC KnockOut Trophy.
- Test Debut: October 16, 2003, against New Zealand.
Major Achievements:
- 2002 NatWest Series Final:
- Yuvraj played a crucial role in India’s memorable win against England, forming a vital partnership with Mohammad Kaif to chase down a challenging target at Lord’s.
- 2007 ICC World Twenty20:
- Yuvraj’s iconic six sixes in an over off Stuart Broad in a match against England.
- Scored a blistering 70 off 30 balls against Australia in the semifinals, leading India to the final and their first T20 World Cup title.
- 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup:
- Yuvraj was instrumental in India’s World Cup triumph.
- Scored 362 runs, including a century and four half-centuries.
- Took 15 wickets with his left-arm spin.
- Named the Player of the Tournament.
Health Struggles:
- In 2011, Yuvraj was diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer called mediastinal seminoma.
- Despite the diagnosis, he continued to play in the World Cup and contributed significantly to India’s victory.
- Underwent chemotherapy in the United States and successfully battled the disease.
- Made a comeback to cricket in 2012, displaying immense courage and determination.
Later Career and Retirement:
- Continued to play for India sporadically until 2017.
- Announced his retirement from international cricket on June 10, 2019.
- Played in various T20 leagues around the world post-retirement.
Records and Stats
ODI:
- Matches: 304
- Runs: 8,701
- Average: 36.55
- Centuries: 14
- Wickets: 111
Test:
- Matches: 40
- Runs: 1,900
- Average: 33.92
- Centuries: 3
- Wickets: 9
T20I:
- Matches: 58
- Runs: 1,177
- Average: 28.02
- Wickets: 28
Off the Field
Philanthropy:
- Founded the YouWeCan Foundation, focusing on cancer awareness, prevention, and support for cancer patients.
- Actively involved in various charitable activities and campaigns.
Personal Life:
- Married Bollywood actress Hazel Keech in 2016.
Legacy:
- Yuvraj Singh is remembered not just for his cricketing prowess but also for his resilience and fighting spirit both on and off the field.
- An inspiration to many, he continues to be a significant figure in Indian cricket and beyond.
Yuvraj’s journey from a budding cricketer to a World Cup hero and a cancer survivor is truly remarkable, making him one of the most celebrated and beloved cricketers in India.