Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer Yash Dayal has missed the team’s initial training sessions ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, sparking speculation about his status with the franchise. Dayal’s absence from the training camp at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, along with his omission from the team bus graphics that surfaced on social media, has led to widespread conjecture that the franchise may have sidelined him. The franchise, however, has not issued any official statement.

The left-arm fast bowler was a key figure in RCB’s title-winning campaign in IPL 2025, claiming 13 wickets and playing a crucial role in the death overs alongside senior bowlers.

His absence comes amid ongoing legal proceedings. Dayal faces allegations of physical abuse in separate cases across two Indian states, including one registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He was initially denied relief by lower courts but was granted anticipatory bail by the Rajasthan High Court earlier this year in one of the cases. Investigations are ongoing.

RCB, led by Rajat Patidar, are preparing to defend their maiden IPL title after defeating Punjab Kings in the 2025 final, ending an 18-year wait for the trophy.

If Dayal is unavailable, the franchise may look to its bench strength. New recruit Mangesh Yadav, a left-arm pace-bowling all-rounder, is among the options, along with Rasikh Dar and Abhinandan Singh.

Dayal’s last competitive appearance came in the IPL 2025 final. Further clarity on his role in the upcoming season is awaited.

Off the field, Dayal recently married content creator Shweta Pundir in a private ceremony on Feb. 4 attended by close family members.