The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly turned down legendary all-rounder Yuvraj Singh’s request to come out of retirement and represent Punjab in the upcoming domestic season. Incidentally, the left-handed batsman had announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2019.
Following his retirement, Yuvraj has plied his trade in a couple of overseas franchise-based leagues including the Global T20 Canada. Earlier this year, he was requested by Punjab Cricket Association to come out of his retirement to guide the youngsters in the Punjab state team. Yuvraj Singh obliged to it and decided to make a comeback to competitive cricket.
Yuvraj Singh denied permission by BCCI
The excitement of the fans extended manifolds after he was named in Punjab’s squad for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy scheduled to kickstart next year. As per a report in TOI, Yuvraj Singh had written a letter on the same to the BCCI President Sourav Ganguly. His request, later on, was turned down by the BCCI, for unknown reasons, and he would not be making a comeback.
Also Read: Delhi Announce Probable Squad Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy; Shikhar Dhawan To Lead
He has been seen training with the Punjab cricketers to regain his touch but this development will comeback a setback for both the cricketer and the state association. Yuvraj Singh is one of the best all-rounders the Indian team has ever had. He has featured in 58 T20 Internationals wherein he has scored 1177 runs at a strike rate of 136.38 along with 28 wickets at an economy of 7.06 and with the best bowling figures of 3/17.
Mandeep Singh to lead Punjab
Meanwhile, seasoned batsman Mandeep Singh is all set to lead Punjab in the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy scheduled to start from January 10 next year and will take place over six venues due to the coronavirus pandemic. Mandeep had a decent IPL 2020 with Kings XI Punjab and will look to lead the side from the front.
On the other hand, Manpreet Singh Gony has been appointed as the bowling coach, and he will be assisting Munish Bali who is the head coach.
Also Read: Jaydev Unadkat To Lead Saurashtra In Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2020-21 Season