Srinagar, Jan 25 (KNO): Yudhvir Singh Charak, a 27-year-old cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir, was named Man of the Match for his stellar performance in J&K’s victory over Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy. Charak claimed seven wickets across both innings and scored 20 runs, playing a key role in J&K's first win over Mumbai in ten years.
Speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Yudhvir thanked those who supported his team and expressed pride in the team's achievement. "We made J&K proud. Everyone did a great job. Umar, Aqib, Shubham Khajuria, Abid, Abid Mushtaq, Abdul Samad, Vivrant, Kanhaiya and Yawar Hassan," he said.
Singh said hard work behind the team's success was not achieved overnight, adding that a team is never formed in a day and that a lot of effort is involved. He also acknowledged the support from the association, coaches and fellow players.
"We are getting the same platform as other states are getting. A lot of boys are hardworking. Everyone wants to win," he added.
In a message to young J&K cricketers, Yudhvir said they should always believe in themselves. "They should not think that they are less than anyone else. We have also worked hard to get here. So, I will say that everyone should work hard. Everyone should believe in themselves," he said.
Born in J&K, Yudhvir’s cricketing journey began in 2016. He started playing domestic cricket at the Under-19 level and later represented Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Singh made his debut for Hyderabad in 2019-20 and played for J&K in the 2020-21 season.
In 2020, Yudhvir joined Mumbai Indians as a net bowler for the IPL. The following year, Mumbai bought him at his base price of INR 50 lakh, though he did not play any matches. In 2022, Lucknow Super Giants purchased him at the IPL auction for INR 20 lakh.
Singh is known for his pace and ability to swing the ball. He has played four First-Class games, taking three wickets. In List A cricket, he has 13 wickets from 14 matches. His IPL experience helped him gain exposure and build his confidence as a cricketer.
Yudhvir’s efforts with the ball were crucial in breaking Mumbai's batting order, and his 20-run contribution with the bat helped J&K chase down the target. His all-round performance has drawn attention and established him as a key player for J&K in domestic cricket—(KNO)