Yuvraj Singh misses mandatory practice session at Lords

Star batsman, Yuvraj Singh missed the mandatory practice session for the Indian team at Lords earlier today. The South paw had reportedly fallen sick, and was in no condition to play. In an open practice session, a large contingent of the travelling media team noticed the absence of the left handed batsman, which led to rampant speculation.

While this illness will rule him out of the first warm-up match against the Kiwis, the team management are optimistic about Yuvraj’s chances of making it into the playing XI, when India take on Pakistan in their opening match of the tournament.

ALSO READ : Harbhajan Singh makes a U-turn on MS Dhoni

Given Yuvraj’s past injury record, the team management are being cautious as they do not want to rush him into playing the match. But they are not taking any chances, as there have been whispers of a possible replacement being discussed, should Yuvraj fail to make a full recovery in time.

The ICC Champions Trophy will hold a special place in Yuvraj’s heart, as this is the stage on which he made his international debut. Yuvraj Singh had played his first match for India in the 2000 Champions Trophy against Australia.

Lords is also a special place for Yuvi, as this is the place where he helped script one of India’s greatest ODI victories against England. Yuvraj and Mohammed Kaif shared an epic partnership which led India to an improbable victory in the Natwest Series final.

For a man who has won everything in the game, Yuvraj will be looking to make a big impression in what is likely his last Champions Trophy. His huge legion of fans will be praying to see Yuvi back to his very best in the United Kingdom.