Former Indian team skipper Mohammad Azharuddin has come out in support of senior India nationals Suresh Raina and Yuvraj Singh, who were recently axed out from India’s limited squad. Reportedly, Raina and Yuvraj failed to clear the much debated ‘Yo-Yo’ test at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

The ‘Yo-Yo’ test measures the player’s ability to run for extended time span to have a look at their endurance and stamina. Notably, this has been one of the leading criteria to be available for selections on the national side. However, it is noted that both Yuvraj and Raina have failed to pass this test on many occasions.

Talking about the ‘Yo-Yo’ test to Sport360, Azhar remarked that:

“I really don’t know what the Yo-Yo Test is, but as far as fitness is concerned, everyone has to be fit. If you are not fit, you don’t play. But I feel there are players (who are) almost in the twilight of their careers but still very, very good. Maybe fitness for them can be relaxed a little.”

Talking about backing the team’s decision, Azhar still felt that Raina is fit enough to be on the team.

“Like for a player like Yuvraj, he has gone through so much because of his illness (cancer). I don’t think he would have passed the ‘Yo-Yo’ test. There are other players as well. I am a very big fan of Suresh Raina. I feel he should come back. I saw him one and a half months back and he has become very fit. But if the team has taken a decision, you need to back it,” the former batsman signed off.

However, both Raina and Yuvraj’s performance in the ongoing Ranji Trophy has not been impressive to grab the eyeballs of the national selectors.