Royal Challengers Bengaluru's decision to retain Yash Dayal for IPL 2026 has reopened a controversy that has followed the pacer through most of the year. The franchise kept him on a ₹5 crore deal even as two criminal cases against him remain under investigation.
With the retention deadline closing on November 15, the move prompted reactions from sections of fans online, with some questioning whether the franchise should have taken a different approach. Social media users discussed the decision, with some raising questions about the timing of the retention.
Add AllSportsPeople as a preferred news source
RCB retention backlash: Why fans are upset over Yash Dayal
Online reactions appear to reference allegations reported earlier in 2025. According to police filings, Dayal is facing two FIRs involving accusations of sexual abuse.
The first FIR, lodged in Ghaziabad in July, involves claims of sexual and financial exploitation, with the complainant alleging deception under Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The second case, filed in Jaipur, includes additional charges, as per the complaint.
More: IPL 2026 mini auction slots: Number of slots available for every IPL team listed down
As per the FIR filed in Jaipur, the complainant has alleged that Dayal assaulted her over a two-year period, beginning when she was 17. The complaint includes charges under the POCSO Act due to her age at the time.
Dayal has secured interim protection from arrest in the Ghaziabad case through the Allahabad High Court, but both matters are still under investigation. He has also been barred from Uttar Pradesh's domestic T20 league while these cases proceed.
Social media reaction to RCB's decision
Multiple social media posts appeared after RCB announced its retained list, with some users questioning the retention. Some posts questioned the decision to retain the player while the legal matters remain ongoing..
How can you retain Yash Dayal? Https://t.co/6BlRoZzeuP
— Darshan Senthil (@dagiroxforever7) November 15, 2025
RCB kept Yash Dayal. Expect nothing less from this franchise. Https://t.co/mZTwiUca96
— Vinod Ramnath (@NaanumEngineer) November 15, 2025
Reports indicate some within the franchise expect clarity on the cases or believe he may eventually return fit, but the backlash suggests the decision has already affected public perception.
With the mini-auction approaching, RCB now faces the challenge of managing both cricketing plans and reputational concerns.
RELATED LINKS:
- Virat Kohli IPL 2026 team, salary: Will the former India captain retire or look for a transfer?
- IPL 2026 Auction: Date, Players List, Rules & Mini-Auction Preview
- All the latest cricket news
- All IPL-related news