Fast bowler Yash Dayal is set to represent Chhattisgarh in the 2026-27 Indian domestic season after deciding to leave Uttar Pradesh. The left-arm pacer has already joined Chhattisgarh’s pre-season training camp in Alur, Karnataka, while his no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) is currently being processed.
The move marks a fresh chapter in Dayal’s career after a prolonged absence from competitive cricket.
First Competitive Return Since IPL 2025
Dayal has not played any competitive cricket since the IPL 2025 final.
Following the tournament, he faced allegations relating to sexual assault, which kept him out of action throughout the 2026 season.
Although Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) retained him ahead of IPL 2026, the franchise decided not to include him in the squad.
RCB Director of Cricket Mo Bobat had said it was not in the best interests of either the player or the franchise for Dayal to participate because of his personal situation.
Left Out of UP T20 League Squad
In June, Dayal was retained by Gorakhpur Lions for the upcoming UP T20 League and had even started training with the team during the off-season.
However, when the franchise announced its final 18-member squad following the player auction, Dayal’s name was missing.
The UPCA declined to comment on his omission.
According to reports, Dayal had anticipated the possibility of being left out and had already begun planning his move to Chhattisgarh.
Eligible to Play UP T20 League
Under BCCI regulations, a player who transfers to another state association through an NOC can still participate in franchise-based T20 leagues in his home state.
This means Dayal remains eligible to feature in the UP T20 League if selected in future editions despite switching his domestic team.
Experienced Players Join Chhattisgarh Camp
Dayal is not the only experienced cricketer attending Chhattisgarh’s pre-season preparations.
India off-spinner Jayant Yadav, who represented Puducherry last season, has also joined the camp.
Former Saurashtra all-rounder Dharmendrasinh Jadeja is another notable inclusion as Chhattisgarh strengthens its squad ahead of the new domestic campaign.
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New Coach Takes Charge
Chhattisgarh have appointed former India batter Amay Khurasiya as their new head coach.
The pre-season camp in Alur is being conducted under his supervision.
Khurasiya previously enjoyed success with Kerala, guiding the team to the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy final, where they finished runners-up to Vidarbha.
Fresh Start for Dayal
The move to Chhattisgarh offers Dayal an opportunity to rebuild his cricket career after more than a year away from competitive action.
With a new state team, a new coaching setup, and the domestic season approaching, the left-arm fast bowler will be hoping to return to form and put recent off-field challenges behind him through consistent performances on the field.