If we remember correctly, Yuvraj Singh had recently announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, that includes international cricket and the Indian Premier League. The former Indian teammate has now been signed up by Toronto Nationals for the Global T20 Canada 2019.
When he released the statement about his retirement to the press, he also indicated the desire to play in overseas T20 competitions and has sought permission from the BCCI for the same. BCCI prohibits active players from taking part in overseas T20 leagues, although Yuvraj is now retired from international and domestic cricket, he can now be available for the competition which will have 22 matches being played in Brampton from 26th July – 11th August.
Except Toronto Nationals, the 2nd edition of the Global T20 Canada will see 5 other teams – Vancouver Knights, Winnipeg Hawks, Edmonton Royals, Montreal Tigers and Brampton Wolves competing with each other. The Punjab pacer Manpreet Gony is going to play alongside Yuvi in a team including the likes of Brendon McCullum, Kieron Pollard and Trent Boult.
Yuvraj will be joined by some big names from world cricket, including New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, Andre Russell, Shahid Afridi, Wahab Riaz, Shakib Al Hasan, Sunil Narine, Faf du Plessis among others.
This move could mean that Yuvraj may feature in other T20 tournaments around the world. The famous left-hander, who hit Stuart Broad for six sixes in an over during the inaugural edition of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2007, might take part in Euro T20 Slam, hosted jointly by Ireland, the Netherlands and Scotland later in the northern Summer.
Yuvraj stated during his retirement press conference, “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 and big tournaments like the IPL.”
“He wrote to the board yesterday. I don’t see an issue in him getting the nod to play in overseas leagues now that he has retired from international cricket and IPL,” a BCCI source had told the PTI.
“For all #YuvrajSingh fans! ??#TorontoNationals get @YUVSTRONG12 for #GT2019,” Toronto Nationals said on social media.