Yuvraj Singh, the 37 year old Indian cricketer bid farewell to cricket.
Yuvraj kick started his international career in the 2000 ICC Knock Out Trophy. In his very second match, he scored a wonderful 84 against Australia at Nairobi sending Indian cricket fans into joy. He had a different touch, many thought. But who knew he would bring many glories in the coming years.
The Man of six sixers
Mess with him? NO. Ask the English team about it. After a heated argument with Andrew Flintoff, he began to take on Stuart Broad for a 6 of each ball he bowled in the over creating the fastest ever half century off 14 balls. He also scored a 70 against Australia in the semis making India win the match and also the World Cup.
The Man of World Cups
He represented India in under 15 and under 19 World Cups and won man of the series in both, simultaneously seeing India lifting the world cup. He later represented India in 3 50 over World cups -2003, 2007 and 2011. With many beautiful knocks, he ruled the World Cups with the 2011 edition being the Cherry on the cake. He scored 362 runs and picked 15 scalps, making India win the trophy. His 2011 world cup was not the easiest, with him battling cancer and overcoming a streak of poor scores. His roar after sending Australia home and after MSD's winning six can never be forgotten.
Rising like a Phoenix
After being discharged from Hospital in March 2012 after chemotherapy, he got his chance to play on 11th September 2012 in Chennai against Black Caps. He scored 34 runs off 26 balls and announced his return. He had his share of ups and downs since then. He had a decent 2012 T20 World Cup, but the one in 2014 was a disaster in the end. Though he scored a few decent scores, his knock of 11(21 balls) didn't go down well with many. Stones were pelted on his house, forgetting his contribution and inspiration. (Do people have poor memory or is this the amount love they show?!)
He won't be back they thought. But no, he scored 600 plus in 2014-15 Ranji trophy with an average of over 100. But that was not enough for him to be selected in the Indian team for 2015 World Cup. Call it favoritism or cheap politics, Stuart Binny, a selector's son was favored over him. He came back again in 2017, scoring 150 against England in Cuttack. He also won man of the match in Champions Trophy for his 53 of 32 balls.
You are in our hearts, Yuvi. Those memorable knocks whiz past us every now and then. The way you batted, cheered and roared will forever remain etched in our hearts. Thank you for inspiring and creating memories to cherish for life time.
We love you, Yuvi. And we will miss you.....
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