Yuvraj Singh (born 12 December 1981) is a former Indian international cricketer who played as a left-handed middle-order batsman and slow left-arm orthodox bowler.[1][2] He represented India across all formats from 2000 to 2017, amassing significant contributions in limited-overs cricket through aggressive strokeplay and useful bowling.[3]Singh gained global recognition during the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup for hitting six consecutive sixes in an over off England's Stuart Broad, a feat that underscored his power-hitting prowess.[4] He played a starring role in India's 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup triumph, scoring 362 runs including a century and four fifties while taking 15 wickets, earning Player of the Tournament honors.[5] Additionally, he contributed to victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.[6]In late 2011, Singh was diagnosed with mediastinal seminoma, a rare germ cell cancer between the lungs, prompting chemotherapy treatment in the United States; he completed recovery by March 2012 and resumed playing.[7][8] After a career marked by IPL participation with multiple franchises and domestic cricket for Punjab, he announced retirement from international and IPL cricket in June 2019.[3]
Early Life and Background
Family Origins and Upbringing
Yuvraj Singh was born on 12 December 1981 in Chandigarh, Punjab, India, into a Punjabi family with a strong sporting heritage. His father, Yograj Singh (born 25 March 1958), was a former Indian cricketer who represented the national team in one Test match and six One Day Internationals as a right-arm fast-medium bowler, debuting in 1981 against the West Indies.[2][9] His mother, Shabnam Singh, supported the family while Yograj pursued acting and coaching roles post-cricket. Yuvraj has a younger brother, Zoravar Singh.[10]Singh's upbringing was marked by intense early exposure to athletics, initially in roller skating—where he won national junior championships—and tennis, before shifting focus to cricket under his father's influence. Yograj, harboring unfulfilled ambitions from his brief international career, constructed a dedicated cement pitch with nets at their Chandigarh home to train Yuvraj rigorously from age three, emphasizing discipline and skill development. This paternal drive shaped Singh's foundational years, with Yograj later acknowledging enforcing a "tyrannical" household dynamic to prioritize his son's cricketing prospects over familial leniency.[11][9]The family's modest circumstances in Chandigarh, coupled with Yograj's post-cricket ventures into Punjabi cinema, instilled resilience in Singh, who balanced school in the region with daily training sessions that often extended late into evenings. This environment fostered his left-handed batting prowess and part-time spin bowling, though it also contributed to a high-pressure childhood devoid of typical indulgences, as Yograj demanded absolute commitment to cricket as the path to success.[12][10]
Entry into Cricket
Yuvraj Singh's introduction to cricket stemmed from the influence of his father, Yograj Singh, a former Indian Test cricketer who played one match in 1981 and emphasized the sport's potential for success. Despite Yuvraj's early preference for roller skating—in which he secured a gold medal at the national under-14 level—Yograj discarded the award and enforced intensive cricket training from around age 7, including physical conditioning and batting practice, to channel his son's hand-eye coordination toward the game.[13][14]Yuvraj's competitive entry occurred at age 13, when he debuted for Punjab's under-16 team against Jammu and Kashmir in the 1995–96 season, marking his initial structured exposure in age-group domestic cricket.[15][16] Strong showings at this level propelled him to Punjab's under-19 squad, where he captained the side to victory in the 1999–2000 Cooch Behar Trophy final against Bihar, earning man-of-the-match honors with a significant contribution.[17]These junior achievements facilitated his first-class domestic debut for Punjab against Orissa in the 1997–98 Ranji Trophy season, though he scored a duck in his initial innings, signaling the transition from youth to senior competitive play.
Domestic and Youth Career
Initial Domestic Matches
Yuvraj Singh made his first-class debut for Punjab in the Ranji Trophy Super League Group A match against Orissa at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium in Mohali from 7 to 10 February 1997, during the 1996–97 season.[18] At the age of 15, he opened the batting in Punjab's first innings but was dismissed for 0, marking a modest start to his senior domestic career.[15] He also bowled one over in Orissa's innings, conceding 7 runs without taking a wicket.[19] The match ended in a draw, with Orissa scoring 312 in their first innings and Punjab reaching 303 for 6 declared in their second.[18]Despite the initial failure, Singh's inclusion highlighted his precocious talent, having already impressed in age-group cricket for Punjab Under-16s and Under-19s.[11] In subsequent domestic seasons, he began to demonstrate greater consistency and flair. During the 1999–2000 Ranji Trophy, Singh scored 149 runs against Haryana, showcasing his aggressive batting style in longer-format cricket.[15] These early outings for Punjab laid the groundwork for his transition to List A domestic cricket, where he debuted in the 1999–2000 season, further building his reputation as an all-round prospect.[20]
Youth International Exposure
Yuvraj Singh gained initial youth international exposure through India's Under-19 series against Sri Lanka Under-19s during their tour of India in early 1999. In the first Youth ODI on March 5, 1999, at Gwalior, he scored 52 runs off 65 balls. He followed with a more aggressive 89 runs off 55 balls in the third ODI of the series, demonstrating his big-hitting ability.[15]Singh's breakthrough on the youth international stage came at the ICC Under-19 World Cup in January 2000, hosted in Sri Lanka. Representing India Under-19s under captain Mohammad Kaif, he featured in all eight matches, contributing as an all-rounder with both batting and medium-pace bowling.[21]India progressed through Group B, defeating Bangladesh Under-19s on January 12, Kenya Under-19s on January 14, and Namibia Under-19s on January 16, before advancing via the Super League stage with a win over Sri Lanka Under-19s on January 24, where Singh scored 36 runs and took 1 wicket for 39 runs.[21]In the semi-final against Australia Under-19s on January 26 at Colombo, Singh played a pivotal role in India's seven-wicket victory, helping secure their place in the final through a composed all-round display. India clinched the tournament title on January 28, 2000, defeating hosts Sri Lanka Under-19s by six wickets in the final at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium.[22] For his overall tournament performance, including 203 runs across seven innings at an average of 33 and a strike rate of 103, two half-centuries, and 12 wickets at an average of 11, Singh was named Player of the Series.[23][22] This achievement marked India's first Under-19 World Cup win and propelled Singh into prominence as a dynamic talent capable of performing under pressure.[23]
International Career
Debut and Early International Matches
Yuvraj Singh made his One Day International (ODI) debut on 3 October 2000 against Kenya in the ICCKnockOut quarter-final at Nairobi Gymkhana Club, where he did not get an opportunity to bat as India won by eight wickets chasing 209.[24][25] Four days later, in the semi-final against Australia on 7 October, Singh recorded his maiden ODI innings, scoring 84 runs off 80 balls, including eight fours, to earn the Player of the Match award despite India's 45-run defeat.[26][25] At 18 years old, this aggressive knock highlighted his potential as a middle-order batsman capable of attacking strong bowling attacks.[2]Following the tournament, Singh struggled for consistency in his early ODIs, managing just 55 runs across five innings at an average of 11 against various opponents in late 2000 and averaging 15.50 in the December 2000 ODI series against Zimbabwe.[2] His form improved sporadically, with notable contributions emerging in 2001, such as an unbeaten 98 off 110 balls against Sri Lanka in July, aiding India's chase in a crucial match.[27] These performances underscored his left-handed batting flair and occasional left-arm spin bowling, though he remained on the fringes of the Test squad initially.Singh's Test debut came on 16 October 2003 against New Zealand at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, where he batted at number six, scoring 20 runs in the first innings and 5 not out in the second during a drawn match that ended the series level at 0-0.[28][2] This appearance marked his entry into the longer format after three years of primarily ODI exposure, with modest returns reflecting his ongoing adaptation to red-ball cricket.[29]
Breakthrough Performances in ODIs and T20s
Yuvraj Singh made his One Day International (ODI) debut during the 2000 ICC KnockOut Trophy in Nairobi, Kenya, where he announced himself with a confident 84 runs off 80 balls against Australia in the quarter-final on October 7, 2000.[30] This aggressive knock, featuring eight fours, helped India post 265 and earned him the Player of the Match award in his first significant international innings, signaling his potential as a middle-order powerhouse capable of dominating strong bowling attacks.[26]Building on this promise, Singh solidified his reputation in ODIs during the 2002 NatWest Series triangular in England, culminating in the final at Lord's on July 13, 2002. With India needing 326 to win against England, Singh contributed 69 runs off 63 balls in a tense chase, forming a crucial 121-run partnership with Mohammad Kaif, who remained unbeaten on 87.[31]India won by two wickets with two balls to spare, a victory that highlighted Singh's composure under pressure and ability to accelerate in high-stakes scenarios, marking a key step in his emergence as a reliable finisher.[32]In the nascent T20 International format, Singh's breakthrough aligned with India's participation in the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 in 2007, prior to his most celebrated moments in the tournament. Although T20Is were limited before this event—India having played only a handful of bilateral matches since the format's introduction in 2005—Singh adapted quickly, showcasing his power-hitting in preparatory and early tournament games, which laid the groundwork for his explosive style suited to the shorter format.[2] His left-handed batting, combined with part-time slow left-arm orthodox bowling, provided versatility, though standout T20I contributions initially built on his ODI aggression rather than isolated pre-2007 feats.[33]
Iconic 2007 T20 World Cup Moments
Yuvraj Singh's most celebrated contribution in the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 came during the group stage match against England on 19 September 2007 at Kingsmead, Durban, where he hit six consecutive sixes off the bowling of Stuart Broad in the 19th over.[34] This unprecedented feat in T20 International cricket—the second instance of six sixes in an over in senior international matches after Herschelle Gibbs' effort in an ODI—propelled Yuvraj to the fastest half-century in international cricket history at the time, reaching 50 runs off just 12 balls.[34][35] His explosive 58 runs from 16 balls, including three fours and six sixes, was instrumental in India posting a formidable 218/4, securing an 18-run victory and earning him the Player of the Match award.[34]In the semi-final against Australia on 22 September 2007, also at Kingsmead, Durban, Yuvraj delivered another match-defining innings, scoring 70 runs off 30 balls to anchor India's chase of 189.[36] His aggressive strokeplay, featuring powerful drives and lofted shots, helped India reach 188/5, defeating the defending ODI World Cup champions by 15 runs and advancing to the final, with Yuvraj again named Player of the Match.[36][37] These performances underscored Yuvraj's ability to dominate high-pressure encounters, contributing to his tournament aggregate of 148 runs across five innings at a strike rate of 194.73, including two fifties.[38]
Contributions to 2011 ODI World Cup Victory
Yuvraj Singh delivered exceptional all-round performances throughout the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, contributing significantly to India's title win hosted primarily on home soil. In nine matches, he scored 362 runs at an average of 90.50 with a strike rate of 86.19, including one century and four half-centuries, while capturing 15 wickets at an average of 25.13, with best figures of 5/31.[39][40][41] His efforts earned him four Man of the Match awards, making him only the third player in World Cup history to achieve that feat, behind Aravinda de Silva and Lance Klusener, and securing the Player of the Tournament honor.[42]In the group stage, Yuvraj's standout display came against England on March 27, 2011, where he took 5/31 to restrict them to 128 all out, then anchored the chase with an unbeaten 51 off 51 balls as India won by six wickets. This match marked him as the first player to claim a five-wicket haul and score a fifty in the same World Cup edition. Against West Indies on March 20, 2011, he scored a resolute 113 off 123 balls to propel India to 268, supported by 2/18 with the ball, leading to an 80-run victory and another Man of the Match award.[43][44]During the knockout stages, Yuvraj's contributions proved decisive in high-pressure scenarios. In the quarter-final against Australia on March 24, 2011, his unbeaten 57 off 65 balls formed a crucial partnership, enabling India to chase 261/9 for a five-wicket win and advancing to the semi-finals.[45] In the semi-final versus Pakistan on March 30, 2011, despite scoring a duck, he took 2/44, including key breakthroughs, as India defended 260/6 to win by 29 runs. In the final against Sri Lanka on April 2, 2011, at Wankhede Stadium, he contributed 21 runs and 1/49, supporting the middle order in a tense chase completed by MS Dhoni's six, clinching India's second ODIWorld Cup title. His versatility as a left-arm spinner and aggressive batsman provided India with balance and momentum, particularly in restricting opponents and stabilizing innings under pressure.[2]
Mid-Career Slumps and Form Recovery Attempts
Following the highs of the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup, Yuvraj Singh experienced inconsistent performances in ODIs during 2008, marked by struggles against spin and poor shot selection, averaging approximately 25 in limited-overs internationals that year amid concerns over his mental application.[46][47] His form dipped further in early 2009 due to a broken fingerinjury that sidelined him from the ICC Champions Trophy, contributing to only sporadic contributions upon return.[48]By 2010, Yuvraj's batting average in ODIs fell to around 28 across 14 innings, with just two half-centuries, leading to his exclusion from India's tours of Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka in June, attributed primarily to subpar fitness levels and prolonged poor form rather than technical deficiencies alone.[49][50] Selectors, led by Krishnamachari Srikkanth, emphasized that Yuvraj's visible lack of conditioning—stemming from off-field lifestyle choices—hindered his explosiveness and fielding agility, core strengths in his earlier career.[49]Recovery efforts intensified post-exclusion, with Yuvraj undertaking rigorous fitness regimes under personal trainers and focusing on core strength to address knee and endurance issues, alongside batting drills to refine his handling of slower bowlers.[51] He returned to domestic cricket with Punjab, scoring consistently in the Ranji Trophy to rebuild confidence, which paved the way for a national recall in late 2010.[52] This groundwork culminated in a resurgence during the 2011 ODI World Cup, where he aggregated 362 runs at an average of 90.50 and claimed 15 wickets, demonstrating restored power-hitting and all-round utility.[50] However, underlying fitness vulnerabilities persisted, foreshadowing future challenges.[2]
Cancer Diagnosis, Treatment, and Comeback
In late 2011, following India's ODIWorld Cup victory, Yuvraj Singh experienced persistent health issues including coughing, fatigue, and weight loss, leading to medical evaluations that revealed a malignant tumor.[53] He was diagnosed with mediastinal seminoma, a rare germ cell cancer located between the lungs, and began chemotherapy treatment in the United States on January 26, 2012.[54] The diagnosis was publicly confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on February 6, 2012, with medical advisors noting it as a curable form requiring aggressive intervention.[55]Yuvraj underwent three cycles of chemotherapy at facilities including the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston and centers in Indianapolis, completing the second cycle by early March 2012 and the final one by mid-March.[56][57] He was discharged from treatment on March 18, 2012, after which physicians anticipated full recovery within two months, including rehabilitation focused on regaining physical strength.[58][59] Yuvraj returned to India in early April 2012, having lost significant weight—approximately 13 kilograms during treatment—and emphasizing a disciplined recovery regimen involving nutrition and light training.[7]By May 2012, Yuvraj expressed intentions to resume competitive cricket within three to four months, prioritizing domestic matches for fitness assessment.[60] He trained intensively over the summer, participating in net sessions and Ranji Trophy games for Delhi to rebuild match stamina, before earning a national team recall. His international comeback occurred on September 11, 2012, in a T20I against New Zealand in Chennai, where he bowled two overs for 14 runs, effected a catch, and contributed to India's efforts despite the loss.[61] This marked his first appearance since the cancer battle, followed by selection for the 2012 ICC World Twenty20, signaling a successful reintegration into elite cricket.[62] Yuvraj later extended his return to Test cricket in November 2012 against England, demonstrating sustained recovery.[63]
Final International Years and Retirement
Following his recovery from cancer and return to international cricket in late 2012, Yuvraj Singh faced inconsistent selection amid rising competition from younger all-rounders, limiting his appearances in subsequent years.[64] He was omitted from major tournaments like the 2015 Cricket World Cup and the 2016 ICC World Twenty20, focusing instead on domestic performances to regain form.[1]Yuvraj earned a recall for the January 2017 home ODI and T20I series against England after strong showings in domestic cricket. In the second ODI at Cuttack on January 19, 2017, he scored an unbeaten 150 off 127 balls—his highest ODI score and fifth century—partnershiping with MS Dhoni (134) to propel India to 381/6, securing a 15-run victory and earning Player of the Match honors.[65] He contributed modestly in the preceding ODI (dismissed for 4) and the T20I series, with his final T20I coming in the deciding match against England at Bengaluru on February 1, 2017.[66]Selected for the ODI leg of India's tour of the West Indies in June-July 2017, Yuvraj played the first three matches, scoring 0, 8, and 39 respectively, with his final international appearance in the third ODI at North Sound, Antigua, on June 30, 2017, where India won by 119 runs. He was not picked for the remaining ODIs or subsequent series, including the limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka later that year.[67]On June 10, 2019, at age 37, Yuvraj announced his retirement from all international cricket during a press conference in Mumbai, reflecting on nearly 17 years at the international level across 40 Tests, 304 ODIs, and 58 T20Is.[3] He stated, "After 25 years... in and around 22 yards, and after almost 17 years of international cricket on and off, I have decided to move on," crediting the sport for his achievements while expressing intent to continue in T20 leagues abroad.[68] The decision followed two years without an international cap, amid ongoing IPL participation until 2019.[64]
Franchise Cricket Involvement
Indian Premier League Tenure
Yuvraj Singh debuted in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Kings XI Punjab in the inaugural 2008 season, playing a pivotal role as a middle-order batsman and part-time left-arm spinner.[69] In 14 matches that year, he scored 299 runs at a strike rate of 162.5, including one half-century, while contributing 9 wickets with his bowling.[70] He remained with Kings XI Punjab through 2010, establishing himself as a aggressive T20 all-rounder capable of game-changing innings.[71]Prior to the 2011 season, Yuvraj joined the newly formed Pune Warriors India, where he captained the side in 2012 and 2013, amassing consistent performances despite the team's lack of playoff success.[72] After Pune Warriors disbanded following the 2013 season, Yuvraj entered the 2014 auction and was acquired by Royal Challengers Bangalore for ₹14 crore, reflecting his perceived value as a power-hitter despite inconsistent international form.[73] He scored 376 runs in 14 matches that season at a strike rate of 135.25, though RCB failed to reach the playoffs.[72]Yuvraj's auction value peaked in 2015 when Delhi Daredevils purchased him for a record ₹16 crore—the highest for an Indian player at the time—amid expectations of a batting resurgence post-cancer recovery.[74] However, his contributions were modest, with limited impact in 2015 before moving to Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2016, where he played a supporting role in their IPL title-winning campaign, scoring 227 runs and taking 5 wickets across 13 matches.[6] Retained by Sunrisers for 2017 at ₹7 crore, his form dipped, leading to a release and a return to Kings XI Punjab in 2018 for ₹2 crore.[75]In his final IPL season with Mumbai Indians in 2019, bought for ₹1 crore, Yuvraj played only 5 matches, scoring 62 runs without notable impact, as age and fitness concerns limited his role.[75] Over his IPL career spanning 2008 to 2019, he featured in 132 matches for six franchises, accumulating 2,750 runs at an average of 24.77 and strike rate of 129.72, with 13 half-centuries and 149 sixes, alongside 35 wickets.[76] He announced his retirement from the IPL alongside his international farewell on June 10, 2019, citing a premeditated decision after the 2019 season.[3]
Participation in Global T20 Leagues
Following his retirement from international cricket in June 2019, Yuvraj Singh secured No Objection Certificates from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to feature in overseas franchise leagues, enabling limited participation amid board regulations restricting retired players from such competitions to preserve eligibility for domestic and IPL returns.[77][78]In the Abu Dhabi T10 League's third edition from November 14 to 24, 2019, Yuvraj represented Maratha Arabians, entering as a high-profile acquisition to bolster the side's middle order and part-time spin bowling.[79] His individual returns were underwhelming, including a failure to contribute significantly in the tournament opener against Northern Warriors on November 15—where he batted at No. 4 but succumbed early amid Andre Russell's match-winning efforts for the opposition—and similar modest outputs in qualifiers, yet Maratha Arabians advanced to and won the final by eight wickets against Deccan Gladiators on November 24, securing Yuvraj his first title in the format with scores like 23 off 12 balls in a Super League win over Bangla Tigers.[80][81][82][83]Earlier that year, in the Global T20 Canada from July 25 to August 11, 2019, Yuvraj joined Toronto Nationals alongside internationals like Kieron Pollard and Trent Boult, playing six matches primarily as a middle-order batsman.[84] His contributions varied, highlighted by an aggressive 35 runs off 21 balls on July 28 against Edmonton Royals—featuring powerful strokes that propelled Toronto to a two-wicket chase of 161—though tempered by slower innings such as 14 off 27 balls in an eight-wicket loss to Vancouver Knights, reflecting inconsistent strike rates in a tournament where Toronto finished mid-table.[85][86][87]These stints represented Yuvraj's sole verified engagements in non-IPL global T20-style leagues, as pursuits for spots in competitions like the Big Bash League yielded no contracts despite reported interest from Cricket Australia clubs ahead of the 2020-21 season, underscoring BCCI's oversight on overseas play for Indian retirees.[88][89]
Playing Style and Technical Analysis
Batting Approach and Strengths
Yuvraj Singh, a left-handed middle-order batsman, adopted an aggressive and uncomplicated batting approach, often operating in "fourth gear" regardless of match situation or personal setbacks.[90] This fearless style emphasized powerful stroke-making, particularly square of the wicket, with a high backlift enabling explosive wrist-driven shots.[91] His technique featured precise timing and shot selection, allowing elegant yet brutal execution against both pace and spin bowling.[92][93]Key strengths included exceptional striking power, demonstrated on 19 September 2007 during the ICC T20 World Cup when he hit six consecutive sixes off Stuart Broad in Durban, scoring the fastest T20I fifty off 12 balls at a strike rate of 416.67.[94] Yuvraj's ability to flick, scoop, and lap with powerful wrists added versatility, enabling game-changing acceleration in limited-overs formats.[95] He excelled under pressure, pacing innings expressively while maintaining control, as noted in his improved technique honed through observation of top players.[96]Though prone to inconsistency due to occasional over-aggression, Yuvraj's flair made him a clutch performer in major tournaments, blending brute force with cricketing finesse for memorable contributions.[97] His approach prioritized impact over accumulation, leveraging natural talent for boundary-hitting and rapid scoring rates.[2]
Bowling and Fielding Contributions
Yuvraj Singh primarily bowled slow left-arm orthodox spin as a part-time option, offering control and variety in the middle overs of limited-overs matches, while occasionally delivering medium-pace cutters early in his career.[2] In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he claimed 111 wickets across 304 matches at an average of 38.68 and an economy rate of 5.10, with his best figures of 5/31 achieved against Ireland during the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup on March 6, 2011.[98] His most notable bowling contributions came in the 2011 ODI World Cup, where he took 15 wickets in nine matches, becoming the first player to amass over 300 runs and 15 wickets in a single edition of the tournament.[99] Other standout performances include 4/28 against England in Indore on November 17, 2008, which restricted the opposition and aided India's victory.[100]In Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), Singh's bowling proved more economical and wicket-taking, securing 28 wickets in 58 matches at an average of 17.82 and a strike rate of 17.8, including four-wicket hauls that provided breakthroughs in tight games.[33] However, his Test cricket bowling yielded limited returns, with just 9 wickets in 40 matches at an average of 60.78, reflecting his primary role as a batsman in the longer format.[101] Overall, Singh's bowling added balance to India's white-ball sides, particularly during the mid-2000s to early 2010s, when he filled gaps left by specialist spinners.Singh was equally acclaimed for his fielding, often deployed at point or in the covers, where his athleticism, sharp reflexes, and powerful throwing arm prevented boundaries and effected run-outs under pressure.[102] He effected 94 catches in ODIs and 12 in T20Is, contributing to key dismissals in major tournaments like the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup.[98][33] His spectacular diving catches and direct hits, such as those against England and Australia in bilateral series, earned him comparisons to elite fielders and enhanced India's overall fielding standards during his peak years.[102]
Statistical Overview Across Formats
Yuvraj Singh amassed 11,878 runs across international formats at a batting average of 34.12, with 14 centuries and 72 half-centuries, while taking 148 wickets at an average of 29.10.[2] His limited-overs contributions were particularly notable, including 8,701 ODI runs at 36.55 and 1,177 T20I runs at 28.02, underscoring his role as a middle-order aggressor and part-time spinner.[2] In first-class cricket, he scored 8,965 runs at 36.41, taking 171 wickets at 30.78.[2]Batting Statistics
Data compiled from career records; strike rates unavailable or not standard for some domestic formats.[2][103]Bowling Statistics
Format
Matches
Innings
Balls
Wickets
Average
Economy
Strike Rate
Best Bowling
5W
Tests
40
35
931
9
60.78
3.53
103.44
2/9
0
ODIs
304
161
5,048
111
28.98
5.10
45.48
5/31
1
T20Is
58
30
546
28
17.82
6.92
19.50
3/17
0
FC
139
-
-
171
30.78
-
-
5/10
5
List A
423
-
-
200
31.50
-
-
5/26
2
T20
220
-
-
78
26.12
7.50
20.92
4/17
0
Bowling details reflect his utility as a left-arm orthodox spinner, with stronger performances in white-ball cricket.[2][103] In franchise T20 leagues like the IPL, where he played 132 matches, Yuvraj contributed 2,528 runs at 25.71 and 36 wickets at 28.36, enhancing his domestic T20 totals.[104]
Achievements and Records
Major Tournament Wins and Awards
Yuvraj Singh played a pivotal role in India's triumph at the 2002 ICC Champions Trophy, contributing with the bat in the tournament held in Sri Lanka from September 12 to 24, where India defeated South Africa in the final by seven wickets.[105] His performances were instrumental in India's victory at the 2007 ICC Men's T20 World Cup in South Africa, September 11 to 24, earning him the Player of the Tournament award for scoring 145 runs at a strike rate of 185.89 and taking nine wickets, including the iconic feat of hitting six consecutive sixes off England's Stuart Broad in a group match on September 19.[71][106] Singh's all-round contributions, including 362 runs and 15 wickets, led to him being named Player of the Tournament at the 2011 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, March 19 to April 2, where India defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the final on April 2.[71][15]In recognition of his international achievements, Singh received the inaugural ICC Twenty20 International Performance of the Year award in 2008 for his 2007 World T20 exploits.[107] He was conferred the Arjuna Award, India's second-highest sporting honor, by the Government of India in 2012 for his contributions to cricket.[71] In 2014, Singh was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian honor in India, acknowledging his role in multiple World Cup successes and overall career impact.[71]
Yuvraj Singh achieved one of cricket's most iconic feats on 19 September 2007 during the ICC World Twenty20 against England, hitting six consecutive sixes off Stuart Broad in the 19th over at Kingsmeade Cricket Ground, Durban. This propelled India from 171/5 to 207/5 in that over alone, contributing to a total of 218/4 and an 18-run victory; it marked the first instance of six sixes in a T20 International over and the fourth in senior-level cricket.[35][108]In the same innings, Singh reached his fifty off just 12 balls, setting the then-fastest fifty in T20I history at a strike rate of 416.67; though surpassed globally by Nepal's Dipendra Singh Airee in nine balls in 2024, it remains a landmark for its explosive context within the six-sixes over.[109][110]Singh is the only player to win Player of the Tournament awards in both the ICC T20 World Cup (2007, with 145 runs at 145.00 including the fastest T20I fifty) and the ICCODIWorld Cup (2011, amassing 362 runs at 90.50 and 15 wickets at 25.13).[2][15] In the 2011 tournament, he earned four Player of the Match awards, the joint-most in a single edition, and became the first Indian to score a half-century and take five wickets in the same World Cup match, against Ireland on 6 March 2011.[111][15]Among his other milestones, Singh holds the record for the second-highest fourth-wicket partnership in ODIs, adding 256 runs with Mohammed Kaif against Australia on 15 January 2004, while scoring his personal best of 150 off 127 balls. He is also one of few cricketers with Player of the Match awards across all three international formats, underscoring his all-round impact.[112][113]
Controversies and Criticisms
Fitness and Discipline Challenges
Yuvraj Singh faced recurrent fitness challenges throughout his career, which selectors frequently cited as a barrier to consistent selection, particularly in longer formats. In 2010, his fitness came under scrutiny amid a dip in form, with questions raised about his mental discipline and attitude toward physical conditioning, contributing to doubts over his inclusion in the Indian squad for major tournaments.[114] Earlier that year, Singh received a show-cause notice from the BCCI for an alleged pub brawl in St. Lucia during an ODI tri-series, which fueled criticism of his off-field conduct and led to his exclusion from the Asia Cup squad.[115] These incidents highlighted a pattern where lapses in discipline intersected with physical unpreparedness, as evidenced by his temporary omission from the ODI side despite prior successes.By 2011, ahead of the World Cup, Singh had addressed some fitness concerns through dedicated training, enabling a strong return with 362 runs and 15 wickets, though underlying health issues later emerged.[116] However, fitness remained a persistent hurdle; in his later years, chief selector MSK Prasad explicitly stated in December 2017 that Singh's fitness problems and limited recent competitive play precluded his selection for the Sri Lanka T20I series and South Africa Test tour.[117] Former selector Saba Karim echoed this in August 2017, attributing Singh's squad exclusions primarily to fitness rather than batting form alone.[118]Singh's reputation as a "party-boy," acknowledged in a 2008 interview where he discussed his social lifestyle, was perceived by some as undermining his professional discipline and contributing to inconsistent performances, especially in Test cricket where he managed only 40 matches at an average of 33.[119] Despite rigorous training regimens imposed by his father Yograj Singh— including daily runs, sprints, and extensive fielding drills—these off-field habits occasionally clashed with the evolving demands of modern cricket fitness standards.[120] In a 2007 interview, Singh himself expressed dissatisfaction with his career trajectory, implicitly linking it to unfulfilled potential in Tests amid such challenges.[121]
Stance on Anti-Doping Regulations
In 2009, Yuvraj Singh publicly defended the Indian cricket team's collective decision to reject the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) code, particularly objecting to the "whereabouts rule" that mandates athletes to submit quarterly schedules of their locations for potential out-of-competition testing.[122] He argued that cricketers endure a grueling schedule of 9-10 months of continuous play annually, leaving limited off-season privacy, and thus should not be subjected to the same invasive monitoring as athletes in other sports with more structured downtime.[123] Singh emphasized that while anti-doping testing during active seasons was acceptable, the WADA provisions infringed on personal freedom during rare breaks, stating, "Our concern is that we play 9-10 months of continuous cricket and when we are not playing we should be given that free time."[124] The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) supported this position, missing the July 31 deadline to comply and aligning with players' views that cricket's unique demands warranted exemptions.[125]Singh dismissed criticisms from athletes in other disciplines, such as Olympic sports, asserting that comparisons were invalid given cricket's year-round intensity and the sport's lower historical incidence of doping scandals compared to track and field or cycling.[126] He reiterated that any final decision would be collective among teammates, underscoring a unified front against provisions perceived as overly punitive and disconnected from cricket's operational realities.[127] This stance drew backlash for potentially undermining global anti-doping efforts, with observers noting it reflected broader resistance from high-profile Indian cricketers to WADA's harmonized standards, though Singh maintained the objection was not to testing integrity but to its scope and timing.[128]By 2017, Singh demonstrated engagement with anti-doping initiatives by conducting an education program on anti-doping and anti-corruption for Punjab cricketers at the PCA Stadium on August 21, indicating a nuanced position that supported awareness and in-competition compliance while remaining cautious about expansive regulatory overreach.[129] His comments aligned with a pragmatic view prioritizing player welfare and sport-specific contexts over blanket adoption of WADA protocols, without endorsing recreational drug use or performance enhancement.[130]
Other Off-Field Incidents and Public Scrutiny
In 2010, following India's elimination from the ICC World Twenty20 in the West Indies, reports emerged alleging that Yuvraj Singh and five other Indian players—Harbhajan Singh, Rohit Sharma, Ashish Nehra, Praveen Kumar, and Piyush Chawla—were involved in a brawl at Tequila Joe's pub in Gros Islet, St. Lucia, on May 12. [131] According to local accounts, fans taunted the players over their poor performance, leading to an altercation that reportedly involved thrown chairs and punches, prompting police intervention. [132] Yuvraj Singh denied the incident, stating on Twitter that "there was no fight, not even an argument" and urging media not to fabricate stories. [133] The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) did not officially comment, and no formal charges were filed against the players. [134]On October 17, 2021, Yuvraj Singh was arrested by Haryana Police in Hisar for allegedly using a casteist slur against cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal during a video call on October 15, 2021, which was recorded and shared online. [135] The complaint, filed by a local resident, accused Yuvraj of employing derogatory language referencing Chahal's Jat community while conversing with teammate Gurkeerat Singh Mann. [136] Yuvraj surrendered to authorities, was questioned for several hours, and released on bail after posting a surety of ₹10,000; he issued a public apology on social media, expressing regret for his "wrong and unacceptable" words. [135] The incident drew widespread criticism for perpetuating caste-based insensitivity in public figures, though Haryana Police later stated no further action was deemed necessary pending investigation outcomes. [135]In July 2024, a police complaint was filed in Gurugram against Yuvraj Singh, alongside Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, and Gurkeerat Mann, for allegedly mocking individuals with disabilities in a social media video from a 2020 Instagram Live session. [137] The complainant accused the cricketers of ridiculing locomotor disabilities through gestures and laughter, prompting an FIR under sections of the Indian Penal Code for promoting enmity and outraging religious feelings, as well as under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act. [137]Yuvraj and the others defended the video as light-hearted banter from the COVID-19 lockdown period, but the case highlighted ongoing public scrutiny over off-field conduct among retired athletes. [137]More recently, in June and September 2025, Yuvraj Singh faced questioning by India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) as part of probes into illegal online betting apps, stemming from his endorsements of platforms like Mahadev and Fairplay, which were accused of money laundering. [138] The ED alleged these apps operated unlawfully, generating proceeds of crime through rigged gambling and celebrity promotions; Yuvraj cooperated with investigators but denied knowledge of illegal activities, stating the ads were for legitimate promotions. [139] No charges have been filed against him as of October 2025, though the scrutiny underscores risks for athletes in promotional deals amid India's crackdown on unregulated betting. [140]
Personal Life
Relationships and Family
Yuvraj Singh married actress and model Hazel Keech on November 30, 2016, following their engagement on November 12, 2015; the wedding took place in a traditional Sikh ceremony at Fatehgarh Sahib Gurudwara near Chandigarh.[141][142] The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Orion Keech Singh, in January 2022, followed by a daughter, Aura, on July 17, 2023.[10][141]Singh is the son of former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh and Shabnam Singh; his parents divorced during his childhood, after which he maintained a close relationship with his mother.[10] He has one full brother, Zorawar Singh, who pursued acting and faced a publicized divorce from his wife Akanksha Sharma, finalized in 2019 following four years of separation proceedings.[10][143] Yograj Singh remarried Satbir Kaur, resulting in Singh having step-siblings Victor Singh (a film industry professional) and Amarjeet Kaur.[144]
Health Issues Beyond Cancer
In May 2011, during India's tour of the West Indies, Yuvraj Singh was sidelined due to an upper respiratory infection accompanied by a small patch of pneumonitis in his left lung, as confirmed by team doctor Arun Nair Kohli in a medical report to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).[145] This condition necessitated two to three weeks of rest, delaying his return to competitive cricket and highlighting vulnerabilities in his respiratory health amid a demanding international schedule.[146] The diagnosis followed routine medical tests that incidentally detected the issue, underscoring how such infections can impair athletic performance without prior symptoms.[147]These respiratory challenges predated the more severe symptoms—such as persistent coughing and vomiting—that emerged during the 2011 World Cup and subsequent tours, which were later attributed to the mediastinal tumour.[148] Unlike chronic conditions, Yuvraj's pneumonitis resolved with rest and treatment, allowing a temporary recovery, though it reflected broader patterns of fatigue and minor ailments common among cricketers under high physical strain. No long-term sequelae from this episode were publicly reported, and Yuvraj emphasized maintaining personal fitness regimens to mitigate such risks.[149] Post-recovery efforts focused on holistic health, including diet and training, to prevent recurrence of respiratory vulnerabilities.[150]
Post-Retirement Pursuits
Mentoring Emerging Players
Following his international retirement in 2019, Yuvraj Singh established the Yuvraj Singh Centres of Excellence (YSCE), a network of cricket academies across India aimed at nurturing young talent through structured training programs emphasizing technical skills, discipline, and mental resilience.[151] The YSCE offers an Advanced Training Program for age groups under-14, under-16, under-19, and under-22, featuring intensive one-year regimens that include high-performance camps led by Singh himself, focusing on holistic development beyond batting and bowling techniques.[152] These centers, operational in locations such as Gurugram, Faridabad, and Ayodhya, prioritize identifying and grooming promising players from grassroots levels, with Singh personally overseeing sessions to impart lessons from his career in aggressive stroke-play and match temperament.[153]Singh has directly mentored several emerging Indian cricketers, notably Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, whom he guided during their formative IPL and domestic phases. For Abhishek Sharma, Singh provided targeted advice during a 2023-2024 lean patch, emphasizing consistency and predicting his national team breakthrough within two to three years, which materialized with Sharma's T20I debut and subsequent performances.[154] Similarly, Singh's influence on Gill focused on building confidence in high-pressure scenarios, contributing to Gill's rise as a top-order mainstay. In September 2025, Singh extended his mentorship to Punjab Kings openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya, conducting personalized training sessions to refine their aggressive batting styles and decision-making, mirroring his own left-handed prowess.[155]Other beneficiaries include Arshdeep Singh, whom Singh coached on variations in death bowling, aiding his evolution into a key IPL and international pacer. These efforts underscore Singh's informal yet impactful role in Indian cricket's talent pipeline, often outside official BCCI structures, with mentees crediting his real-match insights for accelerated progress. While Singh has been linked to potential IPL head coaching roles for teams like Delhi Capitals ahead of 2025, his primary focus remains grassroots mentoring through YSCE, producing players who emulate his all-round versatility.[156][157]
Media, Business, and Philanthropic Efforts
Following his recovery from cancer, Yuvraj Singh established the YouWeCan Foundation in 2012 as a non-profit organization focused on cancer awareness, early detection, patient treatment, and rehabilitation in India.[158] The foundation has supported hundreds of underprivileged cancer patients through funding for treatments, diagnostic camps, and survivor programs, raising funds via events such as charity galas and partnerships with corporates.[158] Singh, drawing from his personal experience with mediastinal seminoma diagnosed in 2011, has emphasized holistic cancer care, including emotional support for patients and families, with initiatives extending to rural areas for screening and prevention.[159]In business, Singh launched YouWeCan Ventures in April 2015 as an early-stage investment firm targeting startups in healthtech, edtech, logistics, and related sectors. The venture has seeded or co-led investments in companies such as Healthians (healthcare diagnostics), Wellversed (wellness products), eazyDiner (restaurant tech), and EduKart (online education), providing not only capital but also mentorship to founders.[160] By 2025, these investments contributed significantly to his reported net worth exceeding ₹291 crore, alongside earnings from cricket endorsements and IPL contracts.[161]Singh has engaged in media through commentary, hosting, and promotional appearances. In June 2024, he appeared on the American TV show Good Morning America to explain cricket rules ahead of the T20 World Cup, using his fame to promote the sport internationally.[162] He hosted the 2012 TV series The Unbreakables on Star Sports, featuring inspirational stories of individuals overcoming adversity, and featured in a three-part documentary series that year chronicling his own cancer battle and cricketing career.[163] These efforts have positioned him as a motivational figure in broadcast media, often sharing insights on resilience and sports.[164]