Rohit Sharma reveals how Yuvraj Singh assisted him in coping with the heartbreak of the 2011 World Cup omission

India’s cricket captain, Rohit Sharma, recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about how Yuvraj Singh provided invaluable support during one of the lowest points in his career when he was omitted from the ODI World Cup squad in 2011. Currently gearing up to lead India in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023, Rohit’s journey has been marked by highs and lows, particularly when he wasn’t an established opener.

As preparations for the Asia Cup 2023 and provisional squad selection for the Cricket World Cup continue in Alur, near Bengaluru, Rohit recalled a pivotal conversation with Yuvraj during a challenging period.

Rohit Sharma reminisces Yuvraj’s encouragement amid tough times

Speaking to the PTI, Rohit recalled that Yuvraj put a hand around his shoulders and took Rohit out for dinner and offering sage advice on making a comeback. Rohit also reminisced about Yuvraj’s reassuring words during their conversation. The left-handed all-rounder encouraged him not to lose hope, assuring him that he had many more years of cricket ahead and that he would eventually participate in a World Cup.

“I was sad and sitting in my room and didn’t know what to do next. I remember Yuvi (Yuvraj Singh) calling me to his room and taking me out for dinner. He explained to me how it feels when you are left out,” Rohit said

‘The best thing is that you have so many years in-front of you. As we play in the World Cup, you take this chance to work hard on your game, skills and make a comeback. There is no way that you won’t play for India or not get a chance to play in the World Cup,” the 36-year-old added.

Also READ: Rohit Sharma was left out of the 2011 World Cup squad despite having been in good form in the lead-up to the tournament

Rohit Sharma stresses team selection not about personal preferences

Rohit emphasized that team selection isn’t about personal preferences but about assembling the right players for specific conditions. He acknowledged that selectors and team management may not always achieve the desired results with the chosen players.

“Me, coaches, and selectors, take into account all factors like opposition, surfaces, our strengths, their weaknesses, and then reach a common ground. There is every chance that we will not be perfect always. At the end of the day, few individuals make decisions, and we are bound to make mistakes as humans. We won’t always be right,” the nagpur-born cricketer said.

‘We have tried to communicate with the players after every selection and playing XI that has been announced. We talk to them face to face, one-on-one why they have not been picked,” Rohit concluded.

After missing out on the 2011 World Cup, Rohit bounced back with a spectacular showing in the 2019 World Cup. He emerged as the tournament’s highest run-scorer, amassing an impressive 648 runs. During that unforgettable campaign, Rohit notched up centuries against South Africa, Pakistan, England, Bangladesh  and Sri Lanka, setting a new record with five centuries, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara’s previous milestone.

Also READ: Wasim Akram emphasizes Asia Cup’s role in gauging fast bowlers’ fitness before the ODI World Cup 2023