Andy Flower Praises Yash Dayal's Dual Swinging Ability After IPL 2025 Retention

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Andy Flower has lauded left-arm seamer Yash Dayal, highlighting his skill to swing the ball in both directions. This acknowledgment follows RCB's announcement that they have retained Dayal for ₹5 crores ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

In the 2024 season, the uncapped Dayal emerged as RCB's leading bowler, claiming 15 wickets in 14 matches with an economy rate of 9.15. Speaking during an interview on Jio Cinema, Flower remarked on Dayal's promising trajectory in his career, stating, “We are thrilled to retain Yash Dayal, an extraordinary talent whose career is on an upward trajectory. His unique ability as a left-arm bowler, capable of swinging the ball in both directions, adds a valuable dimension to our bowling attack—one that is increasingly rare in the auction landscape.”

Flower also discussed the retention of Rajat Patidar, who was kept for ₹11 crores. He emphasized Patidar's importance to the team, saying, “Rajat Patidar is a key member of our squad. His exceptional talent and resilience have already made a significant impact on our team, and he truly embodies the spirit of RCB. We are excited to see him continue to develop and shine in the upcoming season.”

In IPL 2024, Patidar had an impressive run, scoring 395 runs across 15 matches at a strike rate of 177.13, including five half-centuries. Since his debut in 2021, he has played 27 matches, accumulating 799 runs with a strike rate of 158.85.

Despite a competitive season where RCB managed to secure a playoff spot by finishing fourth with 14 points from seven wins in 14 matches, their journey came to an end following a four-wicket defeat to Rajasthan Royals in the playoffs. As RCB prepares for the 2025 season, the retention of players like Yash Dayal and Rajat Patidar is expected to be pivotal in their quest for success in the IPL.