New Delhi, July 1 (IANS) India's flamboyant middle-order batsman Yuvraj Singh feels that the International Cricket Council's (ICC) decision to abolish runners is harsh and would affect batting sides.

Yuvraj, who was out of the West Indies series with a lung infection, is fit and raring to go for the forthcoming series in England.

"No runner means batsmen will have to get fitter. Now batsmen have to work hard in conditions like in India and Sri Lanka. It is unfortunate that injured batsmen will not get runners. I think the decision is a little bit harsh," Yuvraj was quoted as saying by NDTV.

The southpaw, however, welcomed ICC's decision to incorporate the DRS (Decision Review System) in all matches sans the Hawk-Eye. "DRS without Hawk-Eye is absolutely fine," Yuvraj said.

Yuvraj said the lung infection came at a wrong time when he was trying to make a comeback in the Test side.

"I was short of breath and was not able to run properly. I knew there was something wrong. These things came at the worst time because for a year and a half I have been struggling with injuries. But that is part of life. You hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

"My injury certainly came at the most inappropriate time. The West Indies tour would have been a great opportunity for me. I was eager to play both the Tests and the ODI series but health comes first and doctors advised me rest for three weeks," he said.

Yuvraj said he has recovered well in time before the England series which will help him prepare better.

"I am fit to tour England. I am feeling revitalised and have recovered well in time before the tour of England. I am looking forward to it," he said.

The selection committee meets Saturday in Chennai to pick up the Test squad for the England series.