Yuvraj Singh Defends Rohit and Virat Amid Criticism Post Home Whitewash

Dubai, UAE : World Cup-winning all-rounder Yuvraj Singh believes that India’s recent 0-3 home whitewash by New Zealand in Tests was a bigger setback than the loss of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in Australia. However, he defended veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, urging critics to remember their past achievements.

India’s 0-3 series loss to an under-strength New Zealand side marked the first time in history that the team faced such a defeat at home. This was followed by a 1-3 loss in the BGT against a dominant Australian side. The performances of Rohit and Kohli, key players of the team, were widely criticized, but Yuvraj dismissed the negativity surrounding them.

“Losing to New Zealand hurts more than losing the BGT because being whitewashed at home is unacceptable. Australia has been a dominant side for years, so losing to them is still understandable,” Yuvraj said during an interview with PTI.

While Kohli managed a century in the BGT series, Rohit struggled with the bat, scoring just 31 runs before opting out of the final Test. Yuvraj praised Rohit for his selfless decision to step down for the team’s benefit.

“It takes greatness to put the team ahead of personal pride. Rohit Sharma’s decision to drop himself shows his character. He has already proven himself as a great captain,” Yuvraj added.

He also voiced confidence in the leadership team comprising coach Gautam Gambhir, selector Ajit Agarkar, and senior players like Bumrah, Rohit, and Kohli. “They are the best cricketing minds to guide Indian cricket forward,” Yuvraj remarked.

The 2011 World Cup hero called for restraint from critics, saying, “Media’s job is to criticize, but as a teammate, my job is to support them. Rohit and Virat are family to me, and their contributions cannot be forgotten.”