Rajasthan Royals are playing Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens today, April 19. The Royals have given a chance to spinner Yash Raj Punja to make his debut.
The Royals brought on Punja as a substitute player after scoring 155 runs. He did well taking one wicket for 25 runs in his four overs. He got Ramandeep Singh out.
Who is Yash Raj Punja?
Yash Raj Punja is an Indian leg-spinner. He was born on June 26 2006 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. His parents, Dheeraj and Shilpa Punja are from India.
Early Life and Background
Punja grew up in the UAE. He went to Cambridge High School in Abu Dhabi. He used to bowl with a seam but changed to leg-spin because of his brother Yodhins advice. Yodhin Punja is the UAE mens international cricketer. Yash chose cricket over studies. He did not want to study to be a doctor.
In 2023 after finishing school exams Punja moved to Bengaluru. He trained at Rahul Dravids academy. He started playing cricket in Karnataka. He also bowled for Rajasthan Royals during their 2024 training camp.
Career
Punja did well in the 2025 Maharaja KSCA T20 Trophy. He played for Hubli Tigers. Took 23 wickets in 10 matches. His average was 12.48. His economy rate was 7.45. He has a lot of bounce because of his height. He can turn the ball sharply.
Rajasthan Royals bought Punja at the IPL 2026 auction for ₹30 lakh. If he plays he could be the UAE-born player, in an IPL team.
Interesting Facts
- Punja is 6’5″ tall.
- He can generate a lot of bounce.
- Ian Bishop talked about him on media in 2024.
- He used to bowl with a seam but changed to leg-spin because of his brother.
- He has also played for Hubli Tigers.