Canada’s rising cricket sensation Yuvraj Samra has captured global attention after scoring a historic century at just 19 during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, marking a defining moment for Canadian cricket on the world stage.
Speaking in an exclusive conversation with Y Media Group Editor Yudhvir Jaswal, Mr. Samra reflected on the innings that changed his life — a composed yet explosive knock against New Zealand that made him the youngest player in World Cup history to score a century.
“I wrote in my diary that I wanted to score 100 against New Zealand at the World Cup,” Mr. Samra revealed, describing how belief and manifestation played a key role in his performance. “When I went in to bat, I was clear-minded. I just felt like it was going to be my day.”
Born and raised in Canada, Mr. Samra’s cricketing journey began at a young age, inspired by his father Baljeet Samra— a passionate cricketer who introduced him to the sport. Weekend matches in Brampton leagues soon turned into a lifelong pursuit.
When Mr. Jaswal asked about the role Mr. Samra’s parents played, the cricketer added his mom Hoshiar Kaur Samra quit her job to support him, to take me to practices and stay with me during games, while his dad would come back from work and take him straight to training.
Named after Indian cricket legend Yuvraj Singh, Mr. Samra credits the former World Cup champion as a major influence, particularly his resilience and discipline.
On the day of the history-making innings, Mr. Samra admitted he entered the match under pressure after underperforming in earlier games. However, a chaotic morning — including misplaced jerseys and logistical issues for his family — unexpectedly helped him stay focused.
“I wasn’t thinking too much about the game. I just wanted to go in and dominate,” he said.
Starting by watching the ball, Mr. Samra turned to a more aggressive approach after reaching his half-century. “I just had to believe that today I’m going to make 100 and I can.” By the time he crossed into triple digits, he had etched his name into cricket history. Mr. Jaswal noted that neither Sachin Tendulkar nor Virat Kohli could achieve what Mr. Samra had done. “A star is born,” he stated.
For Mr. Samra, success comes down to discipline and unwavering commitment. When asked by Mr. Jaswal whether he always wanted to play at top order as an opener, or in the middle order, Mr. Samra responded he had always wanted to be opening batsman, and focused solely on his batting to achieve this. When asked by Mr. Jaswal what strengths he believed a top-tier cricketer should have, he responded to stay clear-minded and not put oneself under pressure.
“Don’t think about a plan B,” he advised young aspirants. “If you believe in something, give it 100 per cent, manifest it, and it will happen.”
Currently focused solely on cricket, Mr. Samra aims to become the first Canadian to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and establish himself across global franchise leagues.
Mr. Jaswal asked if Mr. Samra felt Canadian cricket should receive more aid from the federal government, provincial or municipal government, or even corporations and big businesses. Mr. Samra then highlighted the need for stronger institutional backing for cricket in Canada, including more international exposure, infrastructure, and regular competitive series.
“We only play big teams during World Cups. If we had more matches against teams like Ireland or Zimbabwe, it would help us grow,” he said, adding that improved facilities and a dedicated stadium could significantly elevate the sport nationally.
Despite Canada’s challenges on the global cricket stage, Samra believes the future is promising.
“Cricket is growing in Canada, especially in the GTA. I want to be a role model for the younger generation and show that you can make a career out of this sport from here,” he said.
With his record-breaking performance and grounded outlook, Yuvraaj Samra is not just a young cricketer to watch — he is fast becoming a symbol of Canada’s emerging presence in international cricket.
Watch full interview on Channel Y.
