The Remarkable Journey of Yuvraj Singh: Cricket Legend and Cancer Survivor

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.