Yuvraj Singh shared a powerful story from India’s 2011 World Cup win, revealing advice from Sachin Tendulkar and Gary Kirsten.
Amid backlash after losing to South Africa, the team was told to shut out media and focus only on cricket.
Speaking at an event in Mumbai, Yuvraj said Tendulkar and Kirsten asked players to avoid news and wear headphones.
“Don’t watch TV, don’t read newspapers. Stay focused. Just do what you need to win,” Yuvraj recalled them saying.
India faced massive pressure during the 2011 World Cup, especially after a dramatic loss to South Africa in Nagpur.
The team also tied an earlier match against England, further increasing media and fan criticism during the group stage.
Yuvraj, battling cancer at the time, emerged as Player of the Tournament, helping India lift the trophy after 28 years.
With the 2025 Women’s World Cup starting September 30 in India and Sri Lanka, Yuvraj had a strong message for Harmanpreet Kaur’s team.
He advised the women’s side to block outside noise and stay united under pressure to unlock their full potential.
“Be in the moment. Believe in each other. Back your teammates to shine when the team needs it most,” he said.
India’s women’s team reached the final of the 2017 World Cup but narrowly lost to England at Lord’s.
They missed out on the 2022 semi-finals, making this year’s home tournament a golden opportunity for redemption.
Yuvraj said success comes when all 11 players believe they can make the difference—whether batting or bowling.
“If Smriti gets out, Harman should say ‘I’ll take charge’. If Harman falls, Jemimah must believe she can win it.”
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