Introduction
Yuvraj Singh is a renowned Indian cricketer, who has emerged as one of India’s most celebrated sportsmen in the 21st century. Born on December 12, 1981, in Chandigarh, Punjab, India, Yuvraj is best known for his aggressive stroke play of the ball and his fielding.
Early Life
Born to Yograj Singh, a former fast bowler and Punjabi movie star, Yuvraj’s interest in cricket sparked at an early age. Even though he initially showed greater interest in roller-skating and tennis during his childhood years, under his father’s strenuous training regime he developed passion for cricket.
Youth Career
He first came into prominence as a sixteen-year-old when he scored 358 runs while playing for Punjab Under-16 against Jammu & Kashmir in the 1997 season. Following that performance with numerous impressive displays at different competitive levels earned him a spot in the national team just four years later.
International Career
Yuvraj debuted in international cricket against Kenya in Nairobi during the Knock Out Cup in October 2000. His breakthrough performance came on September 19, 2007 during Twenty-20 World Championship against England where he smashed six ‘sixes’ off Stuart Broad’s over and reached his fifty just from twelve deliveries.
Battle With Cancer
Unfortunately at the peak of his career in February 2012, Yuvraj was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour – Stage I seminoma (a type of testicular cancer). He underwent chemotherapy treatment in Boston and Indianapolis after which news about his recovery started emerging by March.
Achievements and Awards
Amongst various laurels achieved by this phenomenal player include Man Of The Series award in 2011 Cricket World Cup and Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2014. In 2020, he was awarded with prestigious ‘The Sportsman Of The Decade (Cricket)’ award at Indian Sports Honours.
Retirement
On June 10, 2019, Yuvraj announced his retirement from international cricket after serving for almost two decades+right-to-left:. His decision sent waves through the world of cricket as fans bid farewell to one of the sport’s most iconic players. Despite retiring from the field, Yuvraj continues to be active in sports through mentorship roles and charity work.
