Yuvraj Singh is excited to meet the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo & Co in Basel on June 15.
Yuvraj Singh is excited to meet the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo & Co in Basel on June 15. Now in Dhaka, the Indian vice-captain says it’s an honour to be invited to the Euro 2008. Excerpts from an interview with Vijay Tagore...
How’s the feeling?
It’s a huge honour and privilege. As an avid soccer fan, Euro is a mega event that I eagerly await. Europe is home to the world’s best football leagues — EPL (England), Serie A (Italy), Bundelsiga (Germany), La Liga (Spain), Lique (France) and the Dutch league which feature the world’s best soccer stars. So to see them all play for their countries is a thrilling experience. Personally, to be invited to the Euro is something I feel very happy and proud about. Representing India at this forum is humbling and means a lot to me.
You are the only celebrity to be invited...
Who said I am going to be the only celebrity? On June 15, the only celebrities as far as I am concerned will be the 22 gentlemen on the field at St Jakob-Park! More seriously, like I said, it is an incredible honour. When I was told about it by my managers, Cornerstone, I was really excited. I am proud to represent India at this prestigious forum. I am grateful to Carlsburg and Cornerstone for making this possible.
What are your plans in Basel?
From what I have read about Basel, it has a rich history and heritage which I would love to soak in. However, since this is going to be a touch and go visit, I will just try to make the most of the Euro festivities.
Will you watch any other matches?
Oh, I want to watch all the matches. But I have matches to play for other people to watch as well! We have a really busy cricketing season, so I am hoping to catch some of the games on TV whenever possible.
What do you know about Cristiano Ronaldo?
Well, just as much as any red-blooded Manchester United fan I guess. But he is a great player and a huge asset for both his club and his country. As a sportsman, Cristiano has been an inspiration for many.
Do you know any other football player?
Not really, but I hope to make a few friends at Euro 2008.
Who is your favourite footballer?
Cristiano Ronaldo from the contemporary players.
How does it feel after scoring a half-century against Pakistan?
It feels good to be back in India colours and even better to get some runs in the bag. I was very relaxed at the crease. It was a good all-round team effort and it is a good start for this leg of the season for us. I am looking to carry on and play more important knocks for India.
Finally, what do you make of the tri-series in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh is a cricket-crazy country, just like India. Their national team has come a long way. The series is short but action-packed. Hopefully the weather will not have a big part to play. This series is the ideal preparation for the upcoming Asia Cup and a very good opportunity for some of the younger boys to get a look in and display their potential. I am looking forward to playing some good hard cricket during this series.
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