August 29: Former captain of the Indian T20 team, has urged young cricketers to concentrate on their performance.
He emphasized that if they perform well, selectors will take notice.
In a recent conversation, Yadav stated, “I urge the youth not to compare themselves with others, as everyone has a unique story and a different chapter in their journey.”
He reminisced about his early career days when he played domestic cricket, traveled by train, and awaited his opportunity.
Yadav also discussed the immense pressure in Indian cricket, where young players often feel the need to reach the highest levels at a very young age.
He remarked, “In India, many believe that if you haven’t achieved something by the age of 21 or 25, your career is over, and you may need to consider other options. However, age does not determine a player’s destiny. I believe that preparation is what truly matters.”
Yadav encouraged youth to continuously improve their skills and remain committed to their craft, especially when no one is watching. “Your performance is what attracts the selectors’ attention,” he added.
Notably, Yadav received his chance in the Indian team at the age of 31, despite consistently impressive performances in domestic cricket and the IPL. He was a part of the Indian team that won two consecutive T20 World Cups, serving as a player in the 2024 tournament and as captain in the 2026 edition.