In a cricketing world where talent often struggles to meet opportunity, Prince Yadav’s story stands as a testament to perseverance and the magic of the Indian Premier League. At just 23, the right-arm fast bowler from Delhi has gone from a promising yet overlooked First-Class player to being picked by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2025 auction for ₹30 lakhs. But how did this young bowler, with only two First-Class games under his belt, catch the eye of one of the most competitive franchises in the league?
A Humble Beginning
Prince’s early foray into domestic cricket was far from extraordinary. His First-Class debut in 2024 yielded just one wicket in 33 overs across two matches—a performance that many might have written off as forgettable. Yet, this quiet start did not deter the young bowler from pursuing his dream.
The Turning Point: Delhi Premier League
The Delhi Premier League (DPL) became the stage where Prince Yadav transformed from a fringe player into a rising star. Representing Purani Dilli 6, a team led by none other than Indian cricket sensation Rishabh Pant, Prince delivered a performance for the ages. In one electrifying game against the Central Delhi Kings, he took the DPL’s first-ever hat-trick, leaving fans and selectors alike in awe. Prince’s DPL stats were equally impressive—13 wickets in 10 matches at an economy rate of 8.1, making him one of the standout bowlers of the tournament. This remarkable run didn’t just earn him accolades; it positioned him as a promising talent worth nurturing.
The Pant Connection
Lucknow Super Giants made headlines during the IPL 2025 auction by signing Rishabh Pant for a jaw-dropping ₹27 crores. While the cricket world buzzed about this record-breaking deal, LSG quietly secured another gem from Pant’s Purani Dilli 6 team—Prince Yadav. Was this a coincidence or a calculated move? With Pant’s influence and firsthand knowledge of Prince’s potential, LSG’s decision seems anything but random.
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: A Consistent Performer
Prince followed up his DPL success with an impressive run in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In 8 games, he claimed 11 wickets at an economy rate of just 7.5, a remarkable feat in a tournament dominated by aggressive batting. His standout performance came in the quarterfinals against Uttar Pradesh, where he took 3/36, helping Delhi secure a place in the semifinals.
Why LSG Backed Him
Lucknow Super Giants already boast a strong Indian pace attack featuring Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, Akash Deep, and Mayank Yadav. So, what makes Prince Yadav special? LSG likely sees him as a strategic backup—a young, fearless bowler who can step up when needed and learn from seasoned teammates. His raw talent, paired with the IPL’s intense training environment, could turn him into a match-winner in seasons to come.
The Road Ahead
While it remains uncertain whether Prince will debut this season, one thing is clear: his IPL journey is just beginning. Training alongside cricketing stalwarts and gaining exposure to the world’s most competitive T20 league will undoubtedly elevate his game. And who knows? This "Prince" might soon crown himself as a key player for LSG.
