‘Yuvraj Singh is my idol, I’m named after him’ - Canada’s Yuvraj Samra reveals admiration for legendary all-rounder amid T20 World Cup [Exclusive]

Published - 21 Feb 2026, 10:42 IST | Updated - 21 Feb 2026, 10:42 IST

Yuvraj Samra came into the 2026 T20 World Cup as one of the Associate players to watch out for after his splendid performance in the qualifiers. The left-handed batter didn't disappoint, as he became the youngest centurion in T20 World Cup history at the age of 19. He achieved the commendable feat against New Zealand in the group-stage match on February 17 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

CricTracker had the opportunity to interact with Samra on the sidelines of the marquee event. The left-handed batter spoke about his record-breaking century, admiration for Yuvraj Singh and the advice he got from him, his dream of playing for the Mumbai Indians, as it is his father's favourite team, and much more.

I always dreamed about scoring 100 in the World Cup and I feel like it's like a dream come true and can't really process the moment right now. Can't believe it.

I didn't get much time to talk to him about it but just had a chat about how he goes towards the game.

Everyone was proud, especially being a Canadian. First associate player to score 100. It was a really proud moment, a really big thing for associate cricket.

He wants me to be part of Mumbai Indians. It's his favorite team and he really wants me to play for them.

I'd say Mumbai Indians but any team will work, whatever comes my way.

Yuvraj Singh was my idol. That’s why I am named after him. I'm a left-handed batsman. He's a left-handed batsman. Similar bat swing. Just like the way he hits the ball, his bat swing is above his style.

I'll look forward to facing Jasprit Bumrah. He's the world's best bowler right now, and it'll be great facing him. Especially his deceiving action, I feel it'll be a challenge.

I really like Abhishek Sharma. The way he bats with his intent, his aggressive approach is really outstanding.

Tough question. I'll say Yuvraj Singh is up there. I really like Gilchrist, Brian Lara, Sachin Tendulkar. I really enjoy Chris Gayle as well.

That mindset, I feel like it's just within me. No one really inspired me about that. It's just my nature. I just always say to myself that once I go in the middle, I'm going to play fearless and aggressive cricket. And just show what I can do.

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Samra finished the T20 World Cup 2026 with 144 runs in four innings at an average of 36 and a strike rate of 156.53. He will look to build on this performance in Canada's upcoming assignments.