Yash Dayal Overcomes Trolls to Become RCB Hero in IPL 2024
Uncapped Indian pacer Yash Dayal transformed from a subject of online trolling to a hero for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) after the franchise defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to secure a spot in the IPL 2024 playoffs. Dayal, who was signed by RCB for INR 5 crore in the 2024 auction, faced severe criticism on social media after his selection. However, his stellar performance in the final over against CSK earned him praise from RCB skipper Faf du Plessis, who dedicated his Player of the Match award to the left-arm pacer.
Reflecting on his journey, Dayal shared the struggles he faced since joining RCB. “When I was picked by RCB, I faced a lot of criticism and questioning about my place in the team. My mindset was not about proving people wrong, but proving myself,” he said. Dayal credited the team’s unwavering support for his recent success. “RCB told me from day one that I’m an important player for them. They have backed me to the core, and the results you see now are due to their backing and trust in me.”
Discussing the match, Dayal revealed that he was initially not scheduled to bowl the 20th over. A strategic discussion between Du Plessis and Dinesh Karthik led to a change in plans. “I was supposed to bowl the second last over,” Dayal explained. “Suddenly DK [Dinesh Karthik] bhaiya and Faf talked to each other, and it was decided that Lockie [Ferguson] would bowl the 19th and I would bowl the last. I was fine with anything.”
Dayal also opened up about the nerves he felt, especially after a tough episode last year when he conceded five consecutive sixes to Rinku Singh. “After what happened to me last time [against KKR in 2023], there was nervousness,” Dayal admitted. “When I got hit off that first ball, I subconsciously went back to that place. But I have done well in the past, and all I wanted was to deliver a good ball. I didn’t want to look at the scoreboard or the result. I just wanted to bowl well. I was confident in my execution.”
Despite the pressure, Dayal’s calm and focused approach in the final over helped RCB clinch a crucial victory. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of self-belief, proving that with the right mindset and support, challenges can be overcome.
