Yuvraj Singh's Inspiring Journey: Overcoming Cancer to Make a Comeback
Yuvraj Singh's Battle with Cancer
Yuvraj Singh, a former all-rounder for India and a two-time World Cup champion, shared his harrowing experience with cancer, which jeopardized his cricket career. Known for his explosive batting and crucial bowling contributions, Yuvraj was part of the victorious Indian teams in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup.
His resilience was put to the test when he was diagnosed with a rare form of germ cell cancer in 2011, which abruptly halted his cricketing journey. This diagnosis left both fans and teammates anxious about his future in the sport he cherished, as he faced the daunting challenge of recovery.
Yuvraj's Near-Death Experience
In a recent discussion with former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen on the YouTube channel Switch Hit, Yuvraj recounted his near-death experience during his battle with cancer. He expressed shock upon learning that he was facing a life-threatening situation just as his Test career was beginning to flourish.
The 44-year-old revealed that he was forced to choose between participating in a tour to Australia and undergoing life-saving treatment after being informed he had only three to six months to live. This decision caused significant mental and emotional distress during the early stages of his illness.
The Tumor's Location and Treatment
Yuvraj disclosed that the tumor was located between his lung and heart, complicating his condition further. Despite being told he had limited time left, he expressed a strong desire to continue playing cricket.
"The tumor was pressing on the nerve of my heart, and I was warned that I could suffer a heart attack if I didn't undergo chemotherapy," he explained.
Return to Cricket and Foundation Work
After receiving specialized treatment in Boston, Yuvraj made his international T20I comeback against New Zealand in September 2012. Inspired by his journey, he established the 'YOUWECAN' foundation to raise awareness about cancer and support patients and survivors.
Yuvraj shared that both he and his mother initially struggled to accept the reality of his condition, which delayed their decision to seek treatment in the United States. Despite feeling that a comeback was impossible during his third chemotherapy cycle, he remained determined to return to the Indian team.
After his comeback, Yuvraj played for five more years, participating in the 2014 and 2016 T20 World Cups and the 2017 Champions Trophy, before retiring from all forms of cricket in June 2019.
Yuvraj's Career Statistics
Throughout his international career, Yuvraj accumulated 11,139 runs, including 17 centuries and 71 fifties, with an average of 34.98 across 399 matches. He also took 147 wickets, achieving two four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul, with an average of 35.87 and an economy rate of 4.98.