Yuvraj Singh opens up on why he retired from international cricket in 2019, citing lack of respect and support after surviving cancer. The former India star reveals the mental and emotional toll that ended his 18-year cricketing journey.
Yuvraj Singh retired from international cricket in June 2019
New Delhi: Former Indian cricket star Yuvraj Singh has revealed why he chose to retire from international cricket in June 2019, almost seven years after his last match for India. The left-handed all-rounder, celebrated for his contributions to India’s T20 World Cup win in 2007 and 2011 ODI World Cup triumph, said a lack of respect and support from the team management played a key role in his decision.
Yuvraj Singh’s final appearance for India came in an ODI against the West Indies in June 2017. Following that match, he was consistently overlooked by selectors, including for the 2019 World Cup squad, prompting him to step away from the sport.
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During a recent podcast with former tennis star Sania Mirza, Yuvraj admitted, “I was not enjoying the game. I had a feeling that why am I playing cricket when I’m not enjoying it? I was not feeling supported. I was not feeling respected. And I felt, why do I need to do this when I don’t have this?”
He added that lingering on without enjoyment or recognition was affecting him mentally and physically: “I can’t do more than this, mentally or physically, and it was hurting me. And the day I stopped, I was myself again.”
Making his international debut in 2000, Yuvraj Singh represented India for 18 years, playing 40 Tests, 304 ODIs, and 58 T20Is. He scored 1,900 runs in Tests, 8,701 runs in ODIs, and 1,177 runs in T20Is, including 17 centuries and 71 fifties, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
He also became a household name for his ability to turn matches with both bat and ball, as well as his fearless attitude in high-pressure games.
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Beyond international cricket, Yuvraj featured in 132 IPL matches across six franchises: Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Pune Warriors India. He amassed 2,750 runs at a strike rate of nearly 130, hitting 13 fifties, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most versatile and entertaining cricketers of his generation.
Yuvraj’s candid reflections offer insight into the pressures of international cricket and the emotional toll it can take, even on celebrated players. His retirement marked the end of an era, but his contributions continue to inspire future generations of cricketers in India and beyond.
