Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), fresh off their IPL championship win, are facing significant public anger for retaining fast bowler Yash Dayal for the 2026 season. The decision is highly contentious due to Dayal’s involvement in two criminal cases, notably one under the POCSO Act. His inclusion among the 17 retained players has sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with fans and experts questioning the team management’s decision-making and sensitivity. Dayal is currently involved in two FIRs: one in Ghaziabad alleging sexual exploitation, and another in Jaipur under the POCSO Act concerning a minor. The Rajasthan High Court recently denied his interim bail in the minor’s case, highlighting the seriousness of the charges. While the Allahabad High Court granted him temporary protection from arrest in the Ghaziabad case, the ongoing legal proceedings have fueled public discontent. Many have slammed RCB’s move as ‘tone-deaf,’ suggesting a prioritization of cricketing talent over moral responsibility. There are also questions about whether RCB conducted thorough due diligence, especially given the ongoing judicial review. Furthermore, the fact that Dayal was suspended by the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) from the UPT20 League due to these same allegations, has intensified the debate. This controversy puts RCB, the defending champions, under intense pressure to either defend their decision or reassess their approach ahead of the IPL auction.
