Former Indian cricketers Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni, known for their exceptional skills as middle-order batters, have had a remarkable journey in the national team, winning several prestigious trophies. Although they are both retired now and enjoying their personal lives, there have been speculations about their personal relationship and equation with each other. Yuvraj recently addressed these beliefs and revealed that they are not close friends off the field.
During a conversation on TRS Clips, Yuvraj admitted that their friendship was primarily based on their shared experience of playing cricket for India. However, their personal lifestyles were quite distinct, which prevented them from forming a close bond. He emphasized that when they played together for the country, they always gave more than 100% on the field. Yuvraj served as the vice-captain while Dhoni led the team as the captain. As with any team, there were bound to be differences in decision-making between them.
Yuvraj recounted a significant moment when he sought Dhoni’s advice towards the end of his career. He revealed that Dhoni informed him that the selection committee was not considering him at that time, shedding light on the reality of his situation just before the 2019 World Cup.
The former cricketer further stressed that teammates in a sporting side do not need to be best friends off the field. Each individual has a different lifestyle and skill set, and it is not necessary for everyone to be close friends. The most important aspect is to set personal egos aside and contribute to the team’s success on the field.
Yuvraj shared examples of their professional relationship, highlighting their selflessness and commitment to the team’s cause. He mentioned instances when he acted as a runner for Dhoni when he was injured and how he sacrificed his own milestone to ensure Dhoni reached his century. Likewise, Dhoni blocked balls in a World Cup match to allow Yuvraj to complete his half-century.
Yuvraj also reminisced about the 2011 World Cup final and revealed that they had made a pact that if Gautam Gambhir got out, he would go to bat, and if Virat Kohli got out, Dhoni would step in. This exemplified their professionalism and dedication to the team’s success.
Despite not being close friends, Yuvraj expressed his well wishes for Dhoni and revealed that when they meet, they interact as friends, reminiscing about their past experiences. They even shot an advertisement together, further indicating their cordial relationship.
It is evident that Yuvraj and Dhoni may not have been the best of friends off the field, but their strong professional bond and mutual respect for each other’s abilities contributed significantly to the Indian cricket team’s success during their playing days.