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Yuvraj Singh, regarded as one of the most successful white ball players for India was an integral part of the Indian team which won the T20I and the ODI World Cup. However, his career progress dramatically changed after he was diagnosed with lung cancer after the World Cup in 2011.

Yuvraj Singh came back heroically from extensive treatment in December 2012. However, his resilience was not enough to get a stable place in the Indian squad. Repeated omissions ultimately forced him to retire in June 2019.

 

Robin Uthappa Questions Kohli’s Method of Leadership

 

Speaking in a recent interview with Lallantop, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa spoke about the challenges Yuvraj had under Virat Kohli's captaincy. Uthappa indirectly criticized Kohli’s rigid approach, saying, “Virat’s style of captaincy was very ‘my way or the highway.’” He added, “You have to maintain a level of standard, but there are always exceptions to the rule. Yuvraj deserved to be an exception because he not only won tournaments but also beat cancer—the hardest challenge in life.”

 

Fitness Standards and Denied Requests

 

Uthappa revealed that Yuvraj had requested a two-point concession in fitness tests after his recovery, which was denied by the management. “When Yuvi requested that two-point deduction, he didn’t get it. He passed the test but had a lean tournament and was dropped entirely. The leadership group, led by Virat, didn’t entertain him after that,” Uthappa explained. Kohli’s pursuit of strict fitness standards hurt Yuvraj, who brought laurels to Indian cricket history, Robin noted.

 

Yuvraj Singh's Legacy and Farewell

 

Yuvraj Singh retired from international cricket in 2019 after being overlooked by selectors after a modest performance in the 2017 Champions Trophy.  Talking about Yuvraj's unmatched contribution Uthappa stressed, “He is the man who won us two World Cups along with other players but played an integral role.”

 

A Broader Debate in Leadership Style

 

Uthappa concluded his remarks on the effect of leadership styles on team dynamics. “There are leaders who meet their players at their level and elevate them. Both approaches work, but the impact on individuals can vary,” he said. After this, debates are rife as cricket enthusiasts are divided on whether Yuvraj Singh’s career under Kohli really end.