‘I have decided to move on’ – Umesh Yadav parts ways with Vidarbha after getting NOC

Umesh Yadav has decided to end his 18-year association with Vidarbha and move to another state after receiving his No Objection Certificate from the Vidarbha Cricket Association. The 38-year-old fast bowler is now in talks with a few other state associations to continue his domestic cricket career.

Yadav sought clarity from Vidarbha Cricket Association regarding his future with the state team and his desire to continue playing for them, but the state association did not provide a proper response to his request.

This lack of clarity prompted Yadav to explore other options. He had played in the recent edition of the Vidarbha Premier League and expressed his desire to play more cricket for the state. However, the uncertainty created by the VCA’s response forced him to choose a different path and seek opportunities elsewhere.

“I have decided to move on from this season and play for another state. I have got my NOC from Vidarbha Cricket Association,” Yadav told The Indian Express.

Why Yadav decided to leave Vidarbha

Yadav’s international career has been on hold since his last Test appearance on June 7, 2023, against Australia. At 38 years old, the pacer has been out of the Indian selectors’ minds for some time now, making domestic cricket his primary focus. His decision to move to another state reflects his commitment to continue playing competitive cricket at the domestic level.

Yadav’s Test record in home conditions

In home Test conditions, Yadav has established himself as a formidable bowler. He has taken 101 wickets in 32 Test matches at an average of 25.88 in home matches. Since 2018, he has claimed 43 wickets in 11 home Test matches at an average of 18.25, including one ten-wicket haul and two five-wicket hauls in home conditions.

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Across all three formats, Yadav has represented India in 141 matches throughout his international career. His departure from Vidarbha marks the end of a significant chapter in his domestic cricket journey as he prepares to continue his career with a new state association. The specific state association Yadav will join remains unconfirmed, though he is in talks with multiple associations.