Reports | Umesh Yadav set to feature in Vidarbha’s next Ranji Trophy match against Rajasthan

In what will be a major boost for defending Ranji Trophy champions Vidarbha, Umesh Yadav is all set to return to the side after missing the team’s first game of the season. Umesh, who featured in the long home summer in the Tests against both South Africa and Bangladesh, was rested for the Faiz Fazal-led Vidarbha side’s first game of the season against Andhra, a game that subsequently ended in a draw.

"Yes, he will definitely be part of the team. In fact, Umesh has already started preparing for the next match," a source in the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) told Times of India.

"He is feeling fresh after the break. If he is not playing for the country, Umesh never says no to any Vidarbha game. His commitment towards Vidarbha is exemplary. There's no doubt that his inclusion will give more teeth to our young bowling line-up," the source added.

Last season, despite playing just three games, Umesh claimed a staggering 23 wickets at a stunning average of 12.26 and an exceptional strike rate of 28.3. He was also exceptional for India in the four home Tests he played this season, claiming 23 wickets under an average of 14.