But recent information from his doctors has revealed that his cancer is curable. This will come as a huge relief to his family, fans, supporters and well wishers who have been praying and send goodwill messages.
Recent Tests had revealed Yuvraj was suffering from a rare form of cancer called mediastinal seminoma and is curable. Dr Rohatagi said: "It is curable with the help of therapy and will not hinder Yuvraj's career in the long-term.
One of the cleanest strikers of a cricket ball, the middle-order batsman is not a regular member of India's test team but is an automatic choice in their limited-over sides.
Yuvraj was instrumental in India's 2007 World Twenty20 victory in South Africa and hit England fast bowler Stuart Broad for six sixes in an over in one match.
He was also named player of the tournament in India's successful 50-over World Cup campaign on home soil in February, March and April last year.
Yograj Singh, the cricketer's father, said his son was responding well to treatment.
Last month Yuvraj said on his Twitter account he was reading Lance Armstrong's 2000 autobiography 'It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life'.
"I'm sure it will motivate me and pull me through," the Indian said.
American cyclist Armstrong is one of sport's best-known cancer survivors.
The latest news on Yuvraj has triggered a wave of sympathy across cricket-crazy India with the government leading the messages for a speedy recovery.
