Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh recently took the MSK Prasad-led selection committee to task. He stressed that the board desperately needs an upgrade in its selection process, as he feels the current officials lack a proper understanding of how contemporary cricket is played. Yuvraj admitted that the job is difficult—selecting 15 players inevitably means upsetting another 15—but maintained that the current leadership's vision is insufficient.
Regarding Rishabh Pant, Yuvraj pointed out that the wicketkeeper-batsman is currently refining his game after previously opening the batting, and therefore deserves the time and space to adapt to his new role.
Yuvraj advocated for a culture of support, stating that he always stands by players. He argued that public negativity toward one's own team is counterproductive. According to him, the real test of leadership is providing inspiration during a crisis, rather than joining the chorus of critics when results are poor. He reiterated that a better selection panel is essential for the team's success.
Yuvraj has a history of tension with the selection board. In the past, the left-handed batsman suggested he was snubbed even after meeting the fitness requirements of the yo-yo test. After retiring from national duty in June to explore overseas opportunities, Yuvraj is preparing to feature in the Abu Dhabi T10 League, which kicks off on November 15.
When questioned about Shivam Dube—specifically the tendency for fans and analysts to compare him to Yuvraj—and whether Dube needs more time to find his footing, Yuvraj agreed that patience is key. Dube's debut in the first T20 against Bangladesh in Delhi didn't go as planned, as he struggled with the bat.
Yuvraj believes Dube should first be allowed to establish his own career. He argued that comparisons should only happen once a player reaches a certain level of maturity. 'He shouldn't be compared to me,' Yuvraj remarked, adding that Dube has the raw talent to build his own unique legacy.
He noted that there are a few technical aspects of Dube's game that require attention. Yuvraj questioned whether the current setup is identifying these flaws and suggested that batting mentor Vikram Rathour should be the one to pinpoint exactly where Dube is struggling.