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The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) has taken a big step towards ending their long wait for the Ranji Trophy title, roping in seasoned India pacer Umesh Yadav. Umesh Yadav will now play as a guest player for Punjab in the 2026-27 domestic season.
This is a historic move for the PCA, as the 38-year-old fast bowler has become the first guest player signed by Punjab. The Punjab cricket team has not won the Ranji Trophy since 1992 and is now looking towards Umesh's experience to strengthen its red-ball campaign. Amid this, Not Shubman Gill! Saransh Jain names India’s most chill captain.
Punjab sign Umesh Yadav as guest player for 2026-27 season
Punjab have roped in Umesh Yadav as a guest player for the 2026-27 domestic season with the experienced fast bowler leaving Vidarbha in the big move. Umesh has received a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA), allowing him to join Punjab.
PCA president Amarjit Mehta has confirmed Umesh's move from Vidarbha to Punjab. Umesh has become the first-ever guest player signed by Punjab. Punjab have been waiting for 34 years to win the Ranji Trophy and are now hoping that Umesh's experience can help the team end the long wait.
Umesh has played 55 tests, 75 ODIs, and 9 T20Is for India. His inclusion could give a big boost to Punjab as they eye victory in the coming Ranji Trophy season. The veteran pacer is also expected to play an important role in helping younger Punjab bowlers.
Punjab President explains Umesh Yadav's signing
Amarjit Mehta was quoted as saying by the Times of India, "He has proven credentials as a bowler. He has won the Ranji Trophy with Vidarbha and has been a champion bowler for India as well. We have taken the decision to keep our red-ball cricket in focus.
Punjab has not won the Ranji Trophy since 1992, and we think Umesh is someone who can deliver us the title. His experience is going to be invaluable to the youngsters in the team. There is so much to learn from someone of Umesh's stature.” Amid this, Virat Kohli drops Shai Hope to deny Naman Dhir maiden ODI wicket.
Gurnoor Brar and Arshdeep Singh’s India duty forces Punjab to sign Umesh Yadav
PCA also has a practical reason behind signing Umesh. Their fast-bowling attack could be weakened when Gurnoor Brar and Arshdeep Singh are on India's duty. Both players are expected to play for India, leaving Punjab short of experienced pace options during the domestic season.
So, Umesh's arrival gives the team an experienced bowler who can handle the pressure and lead the youngsters. The PCA president said, “Look, our boys, whenever they are available, play for Punjab. But Gurnoor and Arshdeep will be busy with India duty, and with them gone, our bowling becomes weak. This is also one of the reasons why we have decided to bring in Umesh Yadav.”
Coach explains why Umesh Yadav can be a big asset for Punjab
Meanwhile, Punjab coach Amit Uniyal has highlighted Umesh's fitness and experience. Umesh will turn 39 in three weeks, but the coach believes that his age should not be a major concern.
Uniyal said, “He is still fit, and, in Indian conditions, along with Mohammed Shami, Umesh was lethal. I think age is just a number, and Umesh ticks all the boxes when it comes to fitness. Having said that, there is no guarantee that he will play all the matches. A lot will depend on the combination as well. But his presence in the dressing room is going to be huge.”
Punjab will begin the Ranji Trophy campaign against Assam at New Chandigarh on October 11.
