Yash Dayal has finally addressed his absence from IPL 2026, saying the decision to stay away from the tournament was “not a personal decision.”
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru pacer made the remarks while speaking on a YouTube show amid ongoing legal controversies surrounding him.
Dayal’s comments have sparked fresh discussion after RCB earlier stated that he was unavailable due to a “personal situation.”
‘Decision Was Made by Authority’
Speaking candidly about the situation, Dayal said he misses being part of the IPL and watching his teammates from home has been emotionally difficult.
“Opting out of this season wasn’t my personal decision,” Dayal said.
“The decision is always made by the authority. I don’t know what the reason behind RCB’s decision was.”
The statement appears to contradict the earlier explanation offered by RCB’s director of cricket Mo Bobat, who had suggested the break was taken in the best interests of both the player and the franchise.
RCB Still Backing Yash Dayal?
Despite missing the season, Dayal claimed his relationship with the franchise remains intact.
He pointed out that RCB retained him and did not sign a replacement, which he believes reflects the management’s trust in him.
“I have been in conversations with the management, coach and Dinesh Karthik. The connection hasn’t broken,” he said.
Dayal added that there is “no communication gap” between him and the franchise.
Legal Troubles Continue to Shadow Cricketer
Dayal is currently facing serious allegations in multiple cases.
According to reports, a case involving allegations of sexual exploitation under the pretext of marriage was registered in Ghaziabad. He reportedly received protection from arrest from the Allahabad High Court in that matter.
In another case registered in Jaipur, involving allegations linked to a minor under the POCSO Act, the Rajasthan High Court reportedly declined to grant him relief from arrest, citing the seriousness of the allegations.
The accusations are under legal scrutiny, and investigations remain ongoing.
Minor Made Serious Allegations
Reports claim the complaint filed in Jaipur alleged that the minor came in contact with Dayal during an IPL match and was subjected to repeated abuse over two years.
The complaint also reportedly accused the cricketer of emotional manipulation and making false assurances related to a cricket career.
Dayal has not publicly responded in detail to the specific allegations.
IPL Career Put on Hold
The controversy has significantly impacted Dayal’s cricketing career.
Apart from missing IPL 2026, reports also suggest he was barred from participating in the UP T20 League last year despite being signed by the Gorakhpur Lions.
The left-arm pacer played a major role in RCB’s successful IPL 2025 campaign and was considered one of the franchise’s key bowlers before the off-field controversy erupted.
Fans React to Emotional Statement
Dayal’s remarks have triggered strong reactions online, with fans divided over the situation.
While some supporters praised him for speaking openly, others questioned RCB’s handling of the issue and whether the franchise should have clarified its position earlier.
With legal proceedings still underway, uncertainty continues over when or whether Yash Dayal will return to competitive cricket.
