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Yuvraj Singh, the architect of India’s twin World Cup triumphs (2007 T20 WC & 2011 ODI WC), recently surprised fans by revealing his All-Time XI. While the team boasts legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma, the glaring omission of his close friend and former teammate MS Dhoni sparked a wave of discussion.
Let’s dissect Yuvraj’s dream team:
- Top Order Powerhouse: The opening duo of Tendulkar and Ponting is a nightmare for any bowling attack. Add Rohit Sharma’s explosive batting at number 3 and Kohli’s relentless run-scoring at 4, and you have a top order capable of demolishing any opposition.
- Middle Order Marvels: AB de Villiers, the 360-degree maestro, brings his unorthodox genius to the mix. Adam Gilchrist, the swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batsman, adds firepower and experience in the middle overs.
- All-Round Reliance: Andrew Flintoff, the English powerhouse, is the lone specialist all-rounder, offering crucial balance with his seam bowling and power hitting.
- Bowling Bonanza: The bowling attack is a who’s who of cricketing royalty. Shane Warne’s spin wizardry, Muttiah Muralitharan’s mystery doosras, Glenn McGrath’s laser-like accuracy, and Wasim Akram’s swing bowling form a dream quartet capable of ripping through any batting lineup.
The Dhoni Conundrum:
The biggest talking point is the exclusion of MS Dhoni, Yuvraj’s close friend and a key figure in India’s World Cup victories. While Yuvraj hasn’t commented on the reason behind this omission, fans are left to speculate. Was it a tactical choice based on team balance, a personal preference, or perhaps a hint of unspoken tension?
The 12th Man Mystery:
Adding another layer of intrigue, Yuvraj himself is included as the 12th man. This playful self-inclusion adds a personal touch and highlights his confidence in his own abilities.
A Team for the Ages?
Yuvraj’s All-Time XI is a formidable force on paper. With a batting lineup boasting legendary names and a bowling attack with unmatched skill, this team could dominate any era. However, the absence of Dhoni and the inclusion of himself as the 12th man leave room for debate and speculation, making this dream team all the more intriguing.
