Bengaluru, March 24: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is set to commence on March 28, and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have received a significant blow as fast bowler Yash Dayal has withdrawn from the entire tournament due to personal reasons. The franchise confirmed this on Tuesday. RCB will kick off their campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 28.
Dayal’s absence from training sessions and the lack of his image on the team bus had already sparked rumors about his exit. RCB’s cricket director, Mo Bobat, has now put all doubts to rest regarding his withdrawal.
Bobat stated that although Dayal will not be participating in the tournament, he will remain part of the contract. The team management will continue to support the player during this challenging time.
In a press conference on Tuesday, Bobat said, “I just want to confirm that Yash will not be joining the team. As you know, he is currently going through a personal tough phase. I also want to clarify that we have supported Yash throughout. The proof is that when we had the opportunity to retain or release players, we chose to retain him. We wanted to keep him. He is still under contract and will remain so for the foreseeable future.”
He added, “We are in constant contact with Yash. I spoke to him earlier today, but it has been decided that his joining us at this time is not in his best interest or the franchise’s. Our support will remain with him, and he is still under contract with us. We will continue to communicate with him as he navigates his personal challenges.”
Recently, Yash Dayal married social media influencer Shweta Pundir. He has been at the center of several controversies in recent times. A few months ago, he was denied anticipatory bail in a case involving allegations of rape against a minor girl.
This controversy began in July 2025 when a lawsuit was filed against him, accusing him of exploiting a woman under the pretense of marriage. Following this, another case was registered against him under the POCSO Act in Jaipur.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
