 Yuvraj Singh Bids Goodbye to ODI.webp)
In his final international outing, Yuvraj batted at No. 4, scoring 39 runs off 55 deliveries
In the grand tapestry of cricket, Yuvraj Singh emerged as a vibrant stroke of brilliance. A dynamic all-rounder, Yuvraj's left-handed flair and explosive batting rewrote record books, while his electric fielding set new standards. His journey from a promising prodigy to a World Cup hero is a saga of raw talent meeting audacious spirit.
Singh retired from all forms of cricket after his last match against Chennai Super Kings on April 3, 2019, at Wankhede Stadium, where Imran Tahir dismissed him. This match marked the end of his illustrious career and was celebrated at the venue where he shone brightest during India's 2011 World Cup triumph. Despite his IPL farewell in 2019, his final international game was in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and flair in cricket.
Yuvraj Singh smashed the ball into the covers
Singh's career culminated in the West Indies, not Mohali, a fact that adds a tinge of melancholy to his journey. Nevertheless, he carved a niche as a game-changer in ODIs, earning him 304 appearances for India. Across his illustrious ODI career, he amassed 8,701 runs and claimed 111 wickets. Yuvraj batted at No. 4 in his final international outing, scoring 39 runs off 55 deliveries. India set a formidable total of 251/4 against the West Indies. The hosts faltered, getting bowled out for 158 in 38.1 overs as India secured a 93-run victory. Little did anyone know that this match would end Yuvraj Singh's distinguished international career, closing a chapter of unparalleled contributions to Indian cricket.
Singh's last T20I appearance for India was on February 1, 2017, in a series decider against England at Bengaluru. England opted to field first, setting the stage for a thrilling Indian innings. Contributions from Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni, who both scored impressive half-centuries, set a solid foundation. Yuvraj seized the moment, smashing 27 runs off ten balls, propelling India's total past 200.
In response, Eoin Morgan's team was bowled out for 127, with Yuzvendra Chahal claiming a remarkable six-wicket haul. India triumphed by 75 runs, clinching the series 2-1. Despite his flamboyant knock at a strike rate of 270, Yuvraj was never recalled to the Indian T20I squad. Over nearly a decade, he played 58 T20Is, leaving a lasting impact on the format. From aiding India in clinching the inaugural T20 World Cup to retiring without a farewell match, Yuvraj Singh's journey in T20s has been extraordinary.
Yuvraj Singh played an on-drive during his last test match against England
Unlike his excellence in limited-overs cricket, Yuvraj Singh struggled to replicate the same success in Test matches. His Test career began in October 2003 against New Zealand. Between 2003 and 2012, Yuvraj appeared in 40 Tests for India, amassing 1,900 runs at an average of 33.22. The highlight of his Test career was his brilliant 169 against Pakistan in Bengaluru. As a part-time bowler, he managed to claim nine wickets. In his last Test against England, he scored 32 and 11 runs. However, India's efforts fell short as England, led by Sir Alastair Cook's magnificent 190, won by seven wickets.
Yuvraj Singh's retirement from cricket marked the end of an era. His journey from a young talent to a seasoned match-winner resonated deeply with fans worldwide. Whether smashing six sixes in an over or conquering personal battles, Yuvraj's story is one of cricket's most compelling chapters, blending charisma, grit, and a relentless passion for the game. His legacy as a fearless cricketer and inspiration to millions stands tall, ensuring he is remembered for his statistics, indomitable spirit, and contribution to Indian cricket.
