Umesh Yadav, one of India’s most experienced pacers, has been a prominent name in the IPL for over a decade. However, the IPL 2025 mega auction delivered a shocking twist as the 37-year-old went unsold, leaving fans and cricket pundits puzzled. Despite his extensive contributions to the league and Indian cricket, the veteran’s name failed to attract any bidders.
Shocking and Disappointing, Says Umesh Yadav
In an exclusive interview, Umesh Yadav shared his emotions regarding his unexpected IPL snub:
“It’s shocking. After playing for 15 years and nearly 150 IPL matches, you expect to get picked. It feels bad, but I can’t lie about it,” he said, expressing his disappointment.
IPL 2024 Performance: A Mixed Bag
Umesh played for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024, appearing in seven matches and taking 8 wickets. While his average of 26.25 showcased his ability to take wickets, an economy rate of 10.00 might have made franchises hesitant to bid for him.
Umesh Yadav’s IPL 2024 Performance:
| Season | Team | Matches Played | Wickets | Best Bowling | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Gujarat Titans | 7 | 8 | 2/22 | 10.00 |
Despite these figures, his vast experience and track record in the IPL have left many questioning the decision to overlook him.
Umesh’s Staggering IPL Career Numbers
Umesh Yadav’s IPL journey, which began in 2010, includes stints with Delhi Capitals (DC), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and Gujarat Titans (GT). Over 148 matches, he has taken 144 wickets, with a best bowling performance of 4/23.
Umesh Yadav’s Career IPL Stats:
| Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 148 | 144 | 4/23 | 8.50 |
His impressive statistics solidify his legacy as one of the IPL’s most dependable pacers.
Determined to Continue: “Not Retiring Anytime Soon”
Following a leg surgery after IPL 2024, Umesh remains determined to play at the highest level. He has set a personal benchmark to retire only when he can no longer consistently bowl at 140 kmph.
“As long as I can bowl at 140 kmph, I will keep playing. The day I can’t, I’ll retire myself,” Umesh affirmed.
Reasons Behind the Snub
While Umesh’s high economy rate and advancing age might have played a role in the franchises’ decision, his skill and experience cannot be ignored. Coming late in the auction also may have affected his chances, as teams often have limited budgets left by the time senior players’ names appear.
What’s Next for Umesh?
Despite this setback, Umesh Yadav remains optimistic about his cricketing future. Fans hope to see him make a strong comeback, whether in domestic cricket, other leagues, or potentially even in IPL 2026. His determination and love for the game continue to inspire cricket enthusiasts across the globe.
An Uncertain Yet Hopeful Road Ahead
Umesh Yadav’s snub from IPL 2025 has sparked widespread debate. While his performances in recent years might not match his peak, his contributions to Indian cricket and the IPL are undeniable. For a player of his stature, this is merely a bump in the road. Fans are eager to see what the future holds for this resilient pacer.(Dubai7-Realmoneygame)