The IPL 2025 mega auction, held in November last year, saw ten franchises revamp their squads with significant changes in retention rules. While Rishabh Pant made history by becoming the most expensive buy at ₹27 crore for Lucknow Super Giants, some notable names went unsold, including veteran Indian pacer Umesh Yadav.
Having represented four IPL franchises—Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Gujarat Titans—Umesh expressed his disappointment over being ignored after a 15-year IPL career.
Umesh Yadav Opens Up
In an interview with Inside Sport, Umesh called the snub “shocking” and “disturbing.”
“It’s no secret that I wasn’t picked for the IPL this year. After playing so much and close to 150 IPL matches, not getting selected is shocking. Why should I lie? It feels bad,” Umesh said.
The 37-year-old pacer acknowledged that auction dynamics or franchise strategies might have played a role in his exclusion.
“Maybe my name came late in the auction, and teams didn’t have enough money. Regardless, something happened. It’s frustrating and disturbing, but I can’t change anyone’s decision,” he added.
A Stellar IPL Career
Umesh Yadav’s IPL journey over the last 15 years:
- Matches Played: 148
- Wickets Taken: 144
- Known for his ability to bowl consistently over 140 kmph, Umesh has been a reliable pacer, particularly during powerplays.
Retirement Plans
Despite the setback, Umesh clarified that his retirement would depend on his ability to maintain pace.
“I’ll keep bowling as long as I can consistently hit speeds of 140 kmph. The day I can’t, I’ll quit cricket myself. No one will have to tell me.”
Umesh also revealed that he recently underwent leg surgery, which he sees as a step towards extending his career.
International Cricket Stats
- Tests: 57 matches, 170 wickets
- ODIs: 75 matches, 106 wickets
- T20Is: 9 matches, 12 wickets
Umesh last represented India in the World Test Championship final against Australia back in June 2023.
IPL 2025: A Mixed Bag
While Umesh’s snub highlights the unpredictability of the auction, it also underscores the ever-evolving dynamics of the league. With younger players dominating and franchises focusing on long-term investments, veterans like Umesh Yadav find themselves facing an uphill battle.
Fans of the pacer will surely hope for his return in future IPL editions or other T20 leagues worldwide.
