Robin Uthappa criticizes Virat Kohli, claims he played a role in Yuvraj Singh's career end

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has indirectly pointed the finger at Virat Kohli for the premature end of Yuvraj Singh’s international career. Uthappa claimed that Kohli’s refusal to accommodate Yuvraj’s request for certain fitness concessions after his recovery from cancer played a significant role in the all-rounder’s exit from international cricket. Yuvraj a key player in India's World Cup successes in 2007 and 2011 was diagnosed with cancer after the 2011 World Cup and underwent treatment in the United States. His remarkable recovery saw him make a return to the Indian team including a memorable century against England in an ODI. However after a quiet performance in the 2017 Champions Trophy Yuvraj was ignored by the selectors and announced his retirement from international cricket in 2019.

Speaking in an interview on ‘Lallantop’ Uthappa reflected on the situation, emphasizing Yuvraj’s battle with cancer and his immense contribution to the team. "Yuvraj beat cancer and was trying to come back to the team. He was a key player in India’s World Cup victories. Yet, when he sought a concession for his lung capacity during fitness tests, he was denied," Uthappa said. He further explained that Yuvraj after being dropped from the team requested a two-point deduction in the fitness test but was not granted leniency by the management. Despite passing the fitness test, Yuvraj’s return to the side was short-lived as he was dropped following a lackluster performance in the Champions Trophy. According to Uthappa Virat Kohli the captain at the time played a significant role in the decision-making process.

“Virat was the leader at the time, and it went according to his strong personality. Whoever was in the leadership group didn’t entertain Yuvraj after that,” Uthappa explained.

Reflecting on Kohli’s leadership style, Uthappa described him as a “my way or the highway” type of captain. "It’s not that other captains aren’t like that, but it’s about how you treat your team and personnel. Leadership isn’t just about the results," Uthappa added.

Yuvraj Singh retired from international cricket in 2019, having played his last IPL season with Mumbai Indians. His exit from the game remains a bittersweet chapter in Indian cricket, as his talent and contributions were unquestionable, but his career was cut short due to both health challenges and leadership decisions.