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Former Indian cricket star Yuvraj Singh recently opened up about how his coaching philosophy differs vastly from that of his father, Yograj Singh. Known for his fiery personality and intense approach to the game, Yograj was instrumental in shaping Yuvraj’s early cricketing journey, but the 2011 World Cup hero made it clear that his methods are entirely different. “I am definitely nothing like Yograj Singh. I am a very different person and a very different personality,” Yuvraj stated, underlining the contrast between his father’s tough-love approach and his own more empathetic style.

Yuvraj explained that while his father’s methods were rooted in discipline and aggression, his own outlook is built on understanding and emotional connection.

He believes today’s players respond better to guidance that considers their mental and emotional state rather than rigid instructions. “My style of coaching is very different,” Yuvraj said, emphasizing that mentoring young cricketers requires patience, open communication, and a sense of balance.

His approach reflects the changing dynamics of modern cricket, where mental wellness and player comfort are valued as much as physical performance.

Empathy Over Authority in Mentorship

Yuvraj elaborated that his philosophy revolves around empathy rather than authority. “I believe when you are coaching someone or mentoring someone, you need to be in their shoes and you need to understand their mindset, what they are going through rather than telling them what to do,” he explained. This statement highlights his focus on emotional intelligence and relatability—qualities that are becoming increasingly important in player development.

For Yuvraj, coaching is not about imposing knowledge, but about guiding and supporting players through mutual understanding. He believes young cricketers flourish when their mentors create a supportive environment where learning happens through dialogue, not dictatorship.

A Modern Approach to Young Talent

Reflecting on the current generation of cricketers, Yuvraj stressed the need to adapt to their mindset. “It has to be like a push and pull. You take some and you give some. So it is important to understand how to be in the head of a 19-year-old,” he said. This insight reveals his awareness of the generational shift in attitudes and communication styles.

Yuvraj’s method focuses on striking the right balance—providing motivation while giving players the space to express themselves. His empathetic and collaborative philosophy marks a refreshing evolution from the traditional, authoritarian coaching models, underscoring his belief that understanding young minds is key to nurturing future champions.

This article first appeared on Cricfit and was syndicated with permission.

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