Inspirational Rise: RCB Secures Pacer Mangesh Yadav for ₹5.20 Crore at IPL Auction
The IPL 2026 mini-auction delivered one of its most heartwarming stories when Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured the services of Madhya Pradesh pacer Mangesh Yadav for a staggering INR 5.20 crore. Starting with a modest base price of INR 30 lakh, the intense bidding war drove his price up nearly 17.5 times, reflecting the high regard scouts hold for his pace, accuracy, and exceptional skill in executing yorkers, particularly during the death overs. This acquisition marks a life-changing moment for the 23-year-old and his family.
Yadav's journey is a testament to perseverance, as he hails from a humble background where his father works as a truck driver and his family resides in a rented room costing only Rs. 1,200 per month. His dedication to cricket led him to leave formal education after Class 12 to pursue the sport full-time, eventually moving to Noida for better opportunities.
His breakthrough came when he emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the Madhya Pradesh T20 League, claiming 14 wickets for the Gwalior Cheetahs. These performances earned him a spot in the Madhya Pradesh senior side and his T20 debut in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Now, joining the IPL 2025 champions under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, Mangesh Yadav is set to share the dressing room with global stars like Virat Kohli and Josh Hazlewood, providing him with an invaluable platform to develop his promising talent.
“Mangesh was picked up by RCB for INR 5.20 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, despite having a base price of just INR 30 lakh.”
Unnamed analysis from source
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“Mangesh was picked up by RCB for INR 5.20 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, despite having a base price of just INR 30 lakh.”
Unnamed analysis from source