Robin Uthappa Criticizes Virat Kohli
Yuvraj Singh’s post-cancer comeback was reportedly hindered by Virat Kohli’s high fitness standards, Robin Uthappa alleged.
Considered one of Indian cricket’s greatest match-winners, Yuvraj Singh delivered iconic performances, from smashing six sixes off Stuart Broad during the 2007 T20 World Cup to being named Player of the Tournament in the 2011 ODI World Cup. However, his illustrious career faced a major hurdle when he battled lung cancer. Despite making a remarkable recovery, Yuvraj struggled to regain his place in the Indian team and retired in 2019.
Robin Uthappa, in a recent interview with The Lallantop, criticized former Indian skipper Virat Kohli, alleging that his “exclusive” leadership style contributed to Yuvraj’s career struggles. Uthappa claimed Kohli’s stringent standards offered no leniency for a player of Yuvraj’s stature, even after his heroic battle with cancer.
“Virat’s style of leadership was not inclusive. It was very ‘my way or the highway. As captain, you need to treat your personnel well, not just focus on results,” Uthappa remarked.
Uthappa pointed out how Yuvraj, a two-time World Cup winner, was denied concessions despite his medical history. “When a man who’s beaten cancer and helped you win World Cups requests some leeway, he deserves it. But Virat maintained his standards and didn’t grant Yuvraj that cushion,” he added.
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Uthappa also revealed that Yuvraj’s request to reduce fitness test levels by two points was rejected. “Yuvraj still passed the test, re-entered the team, but after a lean tournament, he was dropped completely. The leadership group, led by Virat, never entertained his comeback,” pointed out Uthappa.
Last Updated on January 10, 2025
