Royal Challengers Bengaluru fast bowler Yash Dayal has revealed that it was the franchise’s decision to keep him away from the IPL 2026 season amid ongoing legal proceedings, adding that he personally wanted to remain part of the squad throughout the campaign. The left-arm pacer is currently out on bail in multiple criminal cases, including allegations related to sexual harassment and exploitation.
One FIR filed in Ghaziabad in 2025 accused Dayal of physical exploitation under the false promise of marriage, while another case registered in Jaipur reportedly involves allegations under the POCSO Act concerning a minor. Despite the controversy surrounding the player, RCB retained Dayal for ₹5 crore following his contribution to the franchise’s IPL 2025 title-winning campaign. However, the decision attracted criticism from sections of fans and observers, especially after the franchise chose not to release him before the IPL 2026 auction.
Speaking on the Talk With Manvendra Podcast, Yash Dayal clarified that he never voluntarily stepped away from cricket and still considers himself connected to the RCB setup. “They haven’t removed me from the team, and they haven’t even announced a replacement because maybe they still see me as part of the squad,” Dayal said.
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“It wasn’t my personal decision to opt out of this season. The statement may become controversial, but decisions are always taken by the authorities. I miss it a lot and feel like I should be there.”
Yash Dayal 🎙️: “It wasn’t my decision to not play in IPL. RCB authorities took this decision but I’m glad that they’ve kept me in their retention list and hasn’t announced the replacement as well. Director (Bobat) has kept me in touch through calls. I’ve talked to Coach and DK… pic.twitter.com/EnakLfguGZ
— RCB Xtra (@Rcb_Xtra) May 25, 2026
The fast bowler also confirmed that he remains in regular contact with the team management, particularly with RCB mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik and director Mo Bobat.
“There is communication with the management. Sometimes they call me, sometimes I call them. I speak with the director (Mo Bobat), and I also stay in touch with DK bhaiya,” he added.
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Dayal has received interim protection from arrest from both the Allahabad High Court and the Rajasthan High Court while investigations continue. Earlier this season, RCB quietly removed Dayal from promotional team-bus photographs before officially confirming that he would not be part of the squad, while also stating that the franchise remained “very supportive” of the player.
RCB, meanwhile, finished the IPL 2026 league stage at the top of the points table and will now head into Qualifier 1 aiming to secure a place in the final.
