Yuvraj Singh: The Sixer King and an Inspirational Warrior
Indian cricket has seen many great players, but Yuvraj Singh’s name will always be written in golden letters. Known not only for his explosive batting but also for his inspirational comeback after battling cancer, Yuvraj’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
Why is Yuvraj Singh Called the Sixer King?
In the 2007 T20 World Cup, Yuvraj Singh made history by smashing six consecutive sixes off Stuart Broad’s over against England. He reached a half-century in just 12 balls, a record that still stands as the fastest fifty in T20 cricket. His incredible performance played a key role in India’s first-ever T20 World Cup triumph.
50+ Fascinating Facts About Yuvraj Singh
Personal Life and Family
1. Yuvraj Singh was born on December 12, 1981, in Chandigarh, India.
2. His father, Yograj Singh, is a former cricketer and actor.
3. As a child, Yuvraj loved roller skating and even won a gold medal at the national level.
4. His father insisted that he take up cricket.
5. He studied at DAV College, Chandigarh.
6. In 2016, he married Bollywood actress Hazel Keech.
7. The couple has a son named Orion Keech Singh.
8. Yuvraj was a left-handed batsman and an exceptional fielder.
9. He was known for his aggressive batting and high strike rate.
10. He earned the title ‘Sixer King’ due to his incredible ability to hit sixes.
Cricket Career and Achievements
11. Yuvraj shined in the 2000 U-19 World Cup with outstanding performances.
12. He made his ODI debut for India on October 3, 2000.
13. In his second ODI match, he scored 84 runs against Australia.
14. He played a crucial role in India’s 2002 NatWest Trophy final victory, scoring 69 runs.
15. He hit six sixes in an over in the 2007 T20 World Cup against England.
16. His 12-ball fifty remains the fastest in T20 cricket.
17. In the 2011 World Cup, he scored 362 runs and took 15 wickets, earning the ‘Man of the Tournament’ award.
18. He became the first player in a single World Cup to score 300+ runs and take 15+ wickets.
19. Yuvraj played 40 Test matches, 304 ODIs, and 58 T20Is for India.
20. He scored 8,701 runs in ODIs, including 14 centuries and 52 fifties.
21. In Test cricket, he recorded three centuries and 11 half-centuries.
22. Yuvraj was also known for his brilliant fielding.
23. In 2012, he made a comeback after defeating cancer.
24. He was honored with the Padma Shri award in 2014.
25. In 2012, he received the prestigious Arjuna Award.
IPL and Franchise Cricket
26. In the 2014 IPL auction, RCB bought Yuvraj for ₹14 crore, the highest bid at that time.
27. In 2015, Delhi Daredevils acquired him for ₹16 crore, making it the highest-ever IPL bid.
28. He played for Kings XI Punjab, Pune Warriors, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mumbai Indians.
29. He scored over 2,750 runs and took 36 wickets in the IPL.
30. He won the IPL trophy with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2016.
Battle with Cancer and Comeback
31. During the 2011 World Cup, Yuvraj began experiencing symptoms of cancer.
32. He was diagnosed with a rare form of lung cancer called ‘Mediastinal Seminoma.’
33. He underwent chemotherapy in the USA.
34. In 2012, he made an emotional return to cricket.
35. His autobiography, The Test of My Life, details his battle with cancer.
36. His victory over cancer made him a global inspiration.
Retirement and Social Work
37. On June 10, 2019, Yuvraj announced his retirement from international cricket.
38. After retirement, he founded the ‘YouWeCan’ foundation.
39. His foundation provides financial aid to cancer patients.
40. Yuvraj has helped over 150 cancer patients.
41. He has received multiple awards for his social work.
42. He actively motivates young cricketers and people battling hardships.
Other Interesting Facts
43. Yuvraj is passionate about luxury cars and bikes.
44. His car collection includes BMW, Bentley, and Audi.
45. He loves Punjabi cuisine.
46. He once mentioned that if not a cricketer, he would have been a tennis player.
47. He lent his voice to the Bollywood animated film Jumbo.
48. He made a guest appearance on Bigg Boss.
49. Yuvraj shares a close friendship with MS Dhoni, Virender Sehwag, and Harbhajan Singh.
50. Fitness is a top priority for him, and he works out regularly.
51. He has attended multiple stand-up comedy shows.
52. He played a crucial role in India’s 2007 and 2011 World Cup victories.
53. Plans for a biopic on his life are underway.
54. His mother, Shabnam Singh, has been his biggest support throughout his career.
55. He frequently delivers motivational speeches.
56. Yuvraj has received numerous national and international honors for his contributions to cricket and society.
57. He is among the few cricketers to hit a hat-trick of sixes in both ODIs and T20Is.
58. He is regarded as one of the most dangerous left-handed batsmen in cricket history.
59. Yuvraj played several match-winning knocks for India.
60. He is considered one of India’s greatest all-rounders.
Conclusion
Yuvraj Singh is more than just a cricketer; he is a symbol of resilience and determination. Whether smashing sixes on the field or battling life’s toughest challenges, he has always emerged victorious. His journey teaches us that with unwavering willpower and hard work, anything is possible. Yuvraj Singh’s legacy in cricket and life will continue to inspire generations to come.
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