Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh spent an inspiring afternoon with budding cricketers at BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, offering hands-on coaching and motivational guidance. The World Cup-winning star not only demonstrated batting and bowling techniques but also praised young girls for their impressive catching skills, remarking that “boys should learn” from them.
The Yuvraj Singh Lucknow cricket coaching session saw enthusiastic participation from children practicing at the stadium. Yuvraj faced deliveries bowled by the youngsters and later supervised catching drills. During one such session, he applauded the girls for their sharp reflexes and clean catches, encouraging the boys to observe and improve their fielding standards.
He emphasised the importance of alertness on the field, telling players they should always stay ready for every ball and avoid standing casually. According to him, relaxed but focused hands are key to taking good catches. If players stand loose, he warned, they risk dropping crucial chances.
Technical tips and personal anecdotes
Yuvraj also guided players on batting and bowling fundamentals. He explained how to hit big shots, including timing and body balance required for fours and sixes. On the bowling front, he discussed maintaining the correct line and length in pace bowling and explained body posture and release points for both pacers and spinners.
The session was interactive, with Yuvraj making children practice catching both with their hands and using a bat to improve coordination. He personally met each child, offering encouragement and practical advice.
In response to a question, he said that being a three-time World Cup winner comes with responsibility. “When we are in UP, we will speak in Hindi,” he added, stressing the importance of connecting with young players in their own language.
Sharing a humorous childhood memory, Yuvraj recounted how his father gifted him his first bat and insisted he use it exclusively. He revealed that after hitting a six with that bat and accidentally striking a man, he was chased and ran away, leaving the bat behind.
He also spoke about learning from legends such as Sachin Tendulkar. Yuvraj said that during difficult phases of his career, he sought advice from Tendulkar, which helped him gain clarity and confidence.
Focus on grassroots development and infrastructure
The event, organised by a private organisation with support from stakeholders including DP World officials, focused on grassroots cricket development. Yuvraj distributed kits to young players and inaugurated a women’s dugout container at the venue. The container features images of Sachin Tendulkar and artwork inspired by Lucknow’s iconic Bara Imambara, symbolising a blend of cricketing heritage and local culture.
Speakers at the event highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s vast population and growing cricketing talent pool. With players like Dhruv Jurel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Rinku Singh representing India at the international level, the emphasis was placed on nurturing talent through better infrastructure and mentorship.
Yuvraj acknowledged that earlier, facilities in Uttar Pradesh were limited despite producing top players. He shared that many talented youngsters during his playing days struggled with access to proper kits and equipment, sometimes even lacking personal gear.
The Yuvraj Singh Lucknow cricket coaching initiative underlined the importance of mentorship in shaping young athletes. By combining technical training with personal stories and encouragement, the former cricketer left a lasting impression on aspiring players, particularly highlighting that dedication and discipline can turn dreams into reality.
