Recovering Yuvraj returns to warm welcome

NEW DELHI: Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh, who underwent three cycles of chemotherapy in United States for a rare germ cell cancer between his lungs, returned to the country Monday to a rousing reception from adoring fans here.


Received by his mother Shabnam at the Indira Gandhi International Airport here, Yuvraj came on a British Airways flight this morning after spending some days in London to recuperate from the after-effects of the chemotherapy. His head, which went bald during the treatment, was covered by a red sports cap.


Wearing a red T-shirt teamed with Khaki pants, Yuvraj made his way through hordes of fans and waiting media personnel after coming out from back gate of the airport. Flashing a victory sign and a smile, the 30-year-old walked through patiently towards a white Audi SUV, which drove him to his Gurgaon home from the airport.


"It (the cancer) is completely out of his system and he is better now," a friend who was with him in London during the treatment said. The Man of the Tournament from last year's World Cup, which India won after 28 years, had gone to the United States for treatment in January. "finally the day has come ! i am going home tomorrow ! cant wait , excited to see my friends and family ..see you india!! mera bharat mahan!" Yuvraj had tweeted yesterday.


It was an emotional homecoming for the cricketer with fans crowding the airport exit, besides the expected media frenzy. Some fans had come all the way from Punjab to welcome the aggressive batsman, who was given an inspirational message by cycling legend and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong during the treatment.