As Yuvraj Singh announced his retirement from international cricket in an event in Mumbai on Monday, 10 June, wishes started pouring in from all corners of the cricketing fraternity.
At the forefront of these wishes were the Indian cricketer, both former as well as the current lot, with whom Yuvraj shared the dressing room.
In his nineteen years of international cricket, Yuvraj has been part of many famous conquests- which include the 2001 Natwest Trophy Final, the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 and finally the 2011 ICC World Cup back at home.
In all these competitions the only common factor apart from India’s triumph has been Yuvraj Singh’s valuable contribution.
Off the field, Yuvraj’s fight against cancer and making a comeback got him more respect, which was evident when his former teammates dedicated messages to him on the social media.
Current skipper Virat Kohli was one of the first people to congratulate the southpaw for a successful career and wished him all the best for the next phase of his life.
“Congratulations on a wonderful career playing for the country paji. You gave us so many memories and victories and I wish you the best for life and everything ahead. Absolute champion.” Kohli wrote.
After Kohli, Shikhar ‘Gabbar’ Dhawan also wished ‘Yuvi Paji’ after his announcement. He thanked Yuvraj for the support and guidance during the playing days.
“Thank you, Yuvi paaji for all the guidance, support & love. ♥ You are one of the best left-handed batsmen I have come across. I always looked up to your style & batting technique, have learnt so much from you! Wish you prosperity & success in your new journey. Rab rakha- @yuvisofficial,” said Dhawan.
Spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also took to Instagram to wish the World Cup winner.
“To one of the Best Players India has ever produced, a World Cup winner, a Cancer Survivor, a True Champion and an Inspiration. Thank you for the memories Yuvi Paa @yuvisofficial,” wrote Chahal.
KL Rahul was also among the current lot of cricketers who dedicated a message for Yuvraj.
“Thank you for everything you’ve shown us on and off the field.❤ A true warrior with determination like no other. Good luck Legend #Yuvi #Legend,” wrote Rahul
Former cricketers also took the moment to wish Yuvraj for a splendid cricketing career.
Sachin Tendulkar took to Twitter as well as Instagram to convey his wishes.
“What a fantastic career you have had Yuvi. You have come out as a true champ everyt ime the team needed you. The fight you put up through all the ups and downs on & off the field is just amazing. Best of luck for your 2nd innings & thanks for all that you have done for Cricket,” wrote Tendulkar.
Virender Sehwag mentioned in his message how big a champion Yuvraj is both on and off the field.
Sehwag wrote: Players will come and go,but players like @yuvisofficial are very rare, they don’t come often. Gone through many difficult times but thrashed disease, thrashed bowlers & won every time. Inspired so many people with his fight, determination & will-power. Best wishes always, winner of hearts #yuvi.
Yuvraj’s Under-19 captain Mohammad Kaif wrote an emotional message where he talked about their cricketing journey. Kaif and Yuvraj revolutionised fielding in the Indian team during their early playing days.
“One of the greatest match-winners in the history of the game,a fighter who built an extraordinary career through difficult challenges & came out a winner every time, my partner in so many memorable moments on the cricket field, We all are so proud of you #YuvrajSingh , u can be very proud of what u have you done for our country. Best wishes for a great second innings @yuvisofficial!” wrote Kaif.
Zaheer Khan and Yuvraj made their senior team debut together during the ICC KnockOut Trophy In Kenya in 2000.
“#thankyouyuvi a true Champion. End of a legendary chapter and beginning of a new... May this one be even Bigger Better Brighter. Cheers to all the great memories on and off the field @yuvisofficial . See you on the other side brother,” said Zaheer.
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