Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has suffered a major setback as fast bowler Yash Dayal will miss the upcoming IPL 2026, starting on March 28. Team director Mo Bobat has confirmed that Yash Dayal is going through a personal crisis, and that’s why he will not be able to play in the league.
Dayal has been dealing with serious legal drama since July 2025. At first, an FIR was registered against the left-arm pacer in Ghaziabad for allegedly sexually exploiting a woman by promising marriage. The woman made several serious allegations against the cricketer.
Adding to the woes, a second FIR was registered against the RCB bowler in Jaipur under the POCSO Act, and this time, he was accused of raping a minor. However, Dayal got relief from the Allahabad High Court, but the Jaipur court rejected his anticipatory bail on the basis of recovered digital records.
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RCB rocked as Yash Dayal to miss the entire IPL 2026 season
After which, Yash Dayal was banned from the UP T20 League, and then he was also ignored by the Uttar Pradesh team for the Ranji Trophy. And now he faced the biggest setback, as the defending champions have also decided to avoid further controversy by playing the pacer in the IPL 2026.
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However, the RCB team director has not revealed much on Dayal’s situation, but his short statement was enough to hint that the franchise wants to keep itself sway from the legal issues, especially following the tragic Bengaluru stampede during the maiden title celebration in 2025.
He made it clear that they will not terminate Yash Dayal’s contract with the franchise, but he will not be part of the squad in the upcoming season, missing the entire tournament.
Mo Bobat was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz: “He’s (Yash Dayal) going through a personal situation. He remains under contract.”
Blackstone plans bold entry into IPL
Meanwhile, Blackstone Inc. is reportedly planning its first-ever sports investment. The company is considering spending around $200–300 million through its special fund for wealthy investors to buy a stake in one of two IPL teams—RCB or Rajasthan Royals—currently up for grabs on the market.
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This potential deal would be done through the Blackstone Private Equity Strategies Fund, which lets the firm hold long-term stakes more easily than traditional investment methods. If the deal is sealed, it could be a fresh and bold chapter for both Blackstone and the IPL.
RCB and KSCA to honour Bengaluru stampede victims
As the defending champions gear up to start their title defense at home, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is preparing for an emotional tribute. Both KSCA and the RCB have decided to pay a heartfelt tribute to the people who lost their lives in the tragic incident last year, including a young 14-year-old child.
Before the IPL 2026 opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), a special memorial plaque will be placed near the stadium’s inner entrance so fans can remember them. Additionally, 11 seats inside the stadium will always remain booked for every IPL and international match in their honor.