Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has opened up about the circumstances surrounding his retirement from international cricket, shedding light on the lack of communication from team management and the role played by MS Dhoni in giving him clarity. Yuvraj, who retired from all forms of cricket in 2019, revealed that the final phase of his international career was marked by confusion and uncertainty. He stated that neither the then captain Virat Kohli nor the coaching staff clearly communicated why he was no longer being considered for selection. Speaking about that difficult period, Yuvraj said he felt “stuck” and deserved more respect for his contributions to Indian cricket. “In my case, there was zero clarity. No clarity from the NCA, captain or coach. I didn’t know what to do,” he recalled.
It was during this time that Yuvraj reached out to Dhoni, who, despite not being captain at the time, provided him with an honest perspective. According to Yuvraj, Dhoni informed him that the selectors were no longer looking at him as part of India’s future plans. “Dhoni gave me the right perspective. He wasn’t the captain and had no official role in the decision, but he understood what was happening,” Yuvraj said. The veteran all-rounder also revealed that he was indirectly pushed towards retirement after being told he might not be able to clear the team’s fitness requirements. However, Yuvraj maintained that the decision to retire should always rest with the player. “I was told I wouldn’t be able to pass the fitness test, so I should retire. I said it’s my call to retire, and your call whether to pick me or not,” he added.
Yuvraj Singh made his international debut in 2000 and went on to become one of India’s most impactful match-winners. Over the course of his career, he played 398 international matches and scored more than 11,000 runs. He was instrumental in India’s triumph in the ICC T20 World Cup 2007, where his explosive batting played a key role in the team lifting the inaugural title. However, his crowning achievement came in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, where he delivered one of the greatest all-round performances in tournament history. Yuvraj scored 362 runs and picked up 15 wickets, earning the Player of the Tournament award and leading India to World Cup glory.
With 304 ODIs, 58 T20Is, and 40 Tests under his belt, Yuvraj Singh leaves behind a legacy of resilience, match-winning performances, and unforgettable moments. Whether with the bat, ball, or in the field, he remains one of India’s most celebrated cricketers. His latest revelation offers a rare glimpse into the challenges athletes face behind the scenes especially when careers approach their end highlighting the importance of communication, respect, and clarity.
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