Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fast bowler Yash Dayal has been officially banned from the upcoming Uttar Pradesh T20 League, following serious sexual harassment and rape allegations filed against him.
The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) has taken swift action, citing the gravity of the charges and legal uncertainties surrounding the cases.
The decision has not only shocked his fans but has also raised questions about his cricketing future, as multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) have been filed against him in different states.
Why Did UPCA Ban Yash Dayal?
The UPCA acted swiftly after Dayal’s name surfaced in two major cases:
- Ghaziabad Case (Uttar Pradesh):
- A woman accused the pacer of exploiting her by promising marriage.
- An FIR was filed, and although the Allahabad High Court temporarily stayed his arrest, the legal battle continues.
- Jaipur Case (Rajasthan):
- In a much more serious charge, a minor girl has accused Dayal of repeated sexual assault.
- The case was registered under the POCSO Act at the Sanganer Sadar Police Station.
- The Rajasthan High Court refused to grant Dayal interim protection, meaning his arrest could happen anytime.
- The next court hearing is scheduled for August 22, 2025.
Given the sensitivity of the matter—especially with one case involving a minor—the UPCA made it clear that Dayal cannot participate in the UP T20 League until the courts deliver clarity.
Career in Trouble
Yash Dayal was riding high on success just a few months ago. Bought by Royal Challengers Bengaluru for a hefty sum, he impressed everyone during the IPL 2025 season, where he picked up 13 wickets in 15 matches.
His performances helped RCB finally break their trophy drought, making him a household name. Following that, he was also signed by the Gorakhpur Lions for ₹7 lakh to play in the UP T20 League.
But now, instead of being on the pitch, Dayal is fighting for his career and reputation. His ban means Gorakhpur Lions will have to find a replacement, and his cricketing journey has been put on an uncertain pause.
Dayal’s story has taken a dramatic turn in just a few months. From being celebrated as a hero of RCB’s IPL victory to facing accusations that could end his career, the contrast is stark.
Cricket fans on social media are divided:
- Some believe in the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” and feel he should get a chance to clear his name.
- Others argue that cricket bodies are right to keep him away from the field until the allegations are resolved, especially given the seriousness of the charges.
The ban is not just a sporting penalty—it’s also a reputational setback that could influence sponsorships, team contracts, and his place in future tournaments.
Legal experts suggest that the Rajasthan case under POCSO Act will be crucial. Since it involves a minor, the court has shown little leniency. The refusal to stay his arrest indicates that the judiciary is treating the matter with the utmost seriousness.
On the other hand, the Ghaziabad case still offers Dayal some breathing space due to the stay order. But until both matters are settled, cricket is the last thing on his plate.
The ban marks a major turning point in Yash Dayal’s career. With two cases hanging over his head, his immediate future in Indian cricket looks grim. Even if he manages to legally defend himself, the shadow of these allegations could take years to fade.
For now, the cricketing world waits for the August 22 hearing, which may decide whether Dayal gets relief or faces arrest. Either way, this episode has become a cautionary tale in Indian cricket, where personal choices off the field can destroy years of hard work on it.
