Punjab rope in 38-year-old Umesh Yadav to end 34-year Ranji drought
The Punjab Cricket Association has signed 38-year-old veteran pacer Umesh Yadav as a guest player for the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season. This historic move aims to bolster the team's bowling attack and provide mentorship to younger players.
Why it matters
This decision marks a strategic shift in domestic cricket management, prioritizing immediate experience to break a long-standing championship drought.
NEW DELHI: Punjab are turning to experience in its quest to end a 34-year wait for the Ranji Trophy, making a significant departure from their traditional approach by signing 38-year-old India pacer Umesh Yadav as a guest player for the 2026-27 domestic season. The move is historic for the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), with Umesh becoming the first guest player signed by the association.Umesh, who has played 55 Tests, 75 ODIs and nine T20Is for India, has received a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) and will play for Punjab this season. PCA president Amarjit Mehta confirmed the veteran pacer's move from Vidarbha to Punjab."He has proven credentials as a bowler.
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