The timely departure

Yuvraj singh aka Yuvi has announced his retirement from international cricket recently in an event in Mumbai. The man who is known for being one of the best players in the history of Indian cricket, declared a sudden end to his career with an outstanding ODI record of 8701 runs -- 22nd in the overall list, and seventh among Indians -- at an average of 36.55 and 111 wickets.

Unlike many, Yuvi will not be a part of Indian Premier League post his retirement and withdraws himself from all forms of games as he says he is open to playing outside the country on other T20 leagues. “I want to play T20 cricket. At this age I can manage to play some kind of fun cricket. I want to go and enjoy my life. It’s been too stressful just thinking about my international career, performing in tournaments like the IPL,” said Yuvraj. He added “Last year only, I had thought that this year’s IPL will be my last,” he added.  “I have decided to retire from BCCI and international cricket as well.”

His retirement was hard to swallow for many fellow Indian Cricketers and fans. Rohit Sharma, Indian team’s Vice-Captain was among the first to tweet that Yuvraj deserves a better send off, he says, “[You don't know what you got till it's gone. Love you brotherman you deserve a better send off. @YUVSTRONG12(sic).”  While social media is buzzing with tribute photos and videos of the much-celebrated cricketer, many people believe that he didn’t get a fitting farewell from the game that he has played for about 19 years.

Captain Virat Kohli wrote, “Congratulations on a wonderful career playing for the country paji. You gave us so many memories and victories and I wish you the best for life and everything ahead.  Absolute champion(sic).”

In the conference, Yuvraj was open to media about his career and decisions he made throughout, he said Sachin was the one whom he used to talk to about his retirement plans, Sachin advised him that retirement comes when you decide for it and not others take it for you.

He has few regrets, such as not playing many test matches due to his health conditions.

The biggest achievement and moment of his career was to bring the world cup back home after 28 years in 2011 and becoming the man of the series.  

Yuvi will always be remembered for India’s win in the 2007 World T20 and the 50-over World Cup in 2011. He is known for his fighting abilities on and off the field. He made a come back to international cricket 9 months after being diagnosed with lung cancer.  Yuvraj became the first every batsman to send six balls over the boundary in a row for the first time in T20 in 2007 against England.  

Fellow players, such as Virender Sehwag tweeted showing their affection. Virender said, “Players will come and go, but players like @YUVSTRONG12 are very rare to find. Gone through many difficult times but thrashed disease,thrashed bowlers & won hearts. Inspired so many people with his fight & will-power. Wish you the best in life,Yuvi #YuvrajSingh. Best wishes always(sic).”

“Congratulations on a fantastic career @YUVSTRONG12. You were an amazing batsman and a brilliant fielder with big match temperament. Your fighting ability is very inspiring. We spent great time together. All the very best in your life ahead,” tweeted Shahid Afridi.