The IPL 2025 encounter between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday was marked by a standout performance from an emerging star, Prince Yadav. In a high-stakes game, this young talent from Delhi showcased his skills, securing his maiden IPL scalp by dismissing the formidable Travis Head.
With SRH mounting pressure, Travis Head, known for his aggressive batting style, was well set at the crease, having already scored a brisk 47 off just 28 balls. The situation demanded a breakthrough, and it was Prince Yadav who stepped up. In the eighth over, he delivered a full delivery on middle and off, outfoxing Head, who missed a powerful heave. The ball crashed into the stumps, bringing silence to the Uppal crowd and jubilation in the LSG dugout.
Born on December 12, 2001, Prince Yadav is a right-arm fast bowler who first caught attention in the Delhi Premier League. His journey to the spotlight began with the 2024 season, playing for Rishabh Pant’s Purani Delhi 6 franchise. His unique ability to vary pace without altering his action significantly became his hallmark, finishing the season with an impressive 13 wickets in 10 matches.
His domestic career saw a rapid ascent. After featuring in two Ranji Trophy matches, he debuted in the 2024-25 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), immediately making an impact by taking two crucial wickets against Uttar Pradesh, including well-set batters Nitish Rana and Sameer Rizvi.
Prince’s standout performances quickly caught the eye of IPL scouts. Just a day after his SMAT debut, he was snapped up by Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2025 mega auction for Rs 30 lakh. Continuing his form in the domestic T20 tournament, he topped Delhi’s wicket-takers chart in SMAT 2024-25, securing 11 wickets at an economical rate of 7.54, helping his team reach the semi-finals.
In the midst of LSG’s injury-hit bowling lineup, Prince Yadav is emerging as a vital asset. His ability to perform under pressure and claim significant wickets positions him as a player to watch in the ongoing IPL 2025 season.