'Coach was happy to get me out' - Umesh Yadav opens up on Vidarbha exit and Punjab move

Umesh Yadav recently opened up about his strained relationship with the Vidarbha Cricket Association after returning to competitive cricket in the opening round of the Ranji Trophy 2026-27 season. The veteran pacer, who had been out of First-Class action for two years and last represented India three years ago, made his comeback as a professional player for Punjab.

Once known as the ‘Vidarbha Express’, Umesh ended his long association with his home state to begin a new chapter in his domestic career. The 38-year-old made an immediate impact on his return, picking up a five-wicket haul in the first innings against Assam. However, his move to Punjab came after a difficult period following a serious injury and what he described as a lack of support from Vidarbha.

Speaking to Times Now, Umesh compared his experience with that of former India teammate Mohammed Shami, who also endured a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury. While acknowledging the challenges both fast bowlers faced, Umesh felt Shami received better support from his state association, Bengal, during his recovery and comeback.

“Shami had an Achilles tendon issue where 20% was affected, along with a little heel bone injury at the back. Mine was 50%; it ruptured and tore apart, and had to be stitched back together with grafting. After that, when I made a comeback, it took me a full year just doing rehab. Because during rehab, one or two other niggles crop up that you might not even know about. But all those things happened. Still, Shami came back and played, but he got support from his state (Bengal), whereas I got the opposite,” Umesh told Times Now.

The right-arm pacer further alleged that he did not receive the backing he expected from Vidarbha after returning from injury. According to Umesh, there were internal dynamics within the setup that made his position increasingly difficult.

“When I came back, I didn’t get that kind of support and backup from there that should have been given. There, it was more about getting Umesh out of the picture. The (Vidarbha) coach was very happy, thinking, ‘There’s only one guy left, one senior left. If he goes out, my word will be heard everywhere and whatever I say will happen.’ Those things happened,” the 38-year-old said.

Umesh Yadav urges selectors to communicate clearly with players

Despite his recent move to Punjab, Umesh has not ruled out the possibility of returning to the Indian team. The fast bowler believes selection decisions should be based on a player's performances and fitness rather than age alone. He also stressed that selectors should communicate their decisions clearly instead of leaving experienced players uncertain about their future.

Umesh Yadav signs for Punjab as guest player

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Umesh Yadav signs for Punjab as guest player

Umesh acknowledged that selectors might have concerns about a player's pace, fitness or ability to contribute at the highest level. However, he believes it is better to communicate those concerns directly, allowing players to understand their situation and plan their next steps accordingly.

“Look, I don’t think it’s ever too late. It depends. I feel any selection should be based on a player’s performance and fitness, not age criteria. Because if you feel that a guy’s age is 37 or 38, and he can’t run or bowl, then it’s okay to say straightforwardly, ‘Brother, you can’t do it anymore; neither is your ball doing the talking, nor are you bowling as fast, and in the field too, you don’t look as fit as you used to.’ You can say that straight away.

“If you, as a selector, have thought of something, pass it on to the player. That’s much better than not communicating and leaving them unsure whether you’ll select them. Just speak clearly; that’s much better than living in false hope that it will happen. If things are crystal clear, you can choose a better next step. But everyone knows-who doesn’t want to represent their country again, who doesn’t want to make a comeback?” he added.

Umesh made his international debut in 2010 and has represented India across all three formats. After spending an extended period recovering from injury, he will now look to make the most of his opportunity with Punjab in the Ranji Trophy as he attempts to revive his domestic career.