Sachin Tendulkar has come out in strong support of Yuvraj Singh, who has faced plenty of criticism after a 21-ball 11 that sucked the momentum out of India’s innings in the World T20 final against Sri Lanka on Sunday.
Yuvraj, Man of the Series in the 2011 World Cup, has already lost his place in the ODI side, and his spot in the Twenty20 side is under scrutiny after a difficult World T20, but Tendulkar hoped Yuvraj would be a part of India’s defence of the World Cup in 2015.
“Yuvi, one off day cannot undermine your tremendous contribution in many sweet memories over the years. You may be down today but you are far from being out,” Tendulkar wrote on his Facebook page. “I want you to know that there are many like me in India and across the world, who keenly look forward to you being a part of the campaign to defend the ODI World Cup title in 2015.”
There were reports that Yuvraj’s house in Chandigarh was pelted with stones following the dismal performance in the World T20 final. Tendulkar urged fans to show their support for him. “Last evening, Yuvi had a tough day and he can be criticised. But he should not be crucified nor should he be written off.
“I have been an admirer of Yuvi’s indomitable spirit which has overcome many challenges, both on and off the field.
“Knowing Yuvi’s determination and ability to fight adversities, he will emerge stronger, proving his critics wrong, yet again.”