Umeshkumar Tilak Yadav, born on October 25, 1987, is an accomplished Indian cricketer renowned for his prowess as a right-arm fast bowler. He has made significant contributions to various cricket teams, including the Vidarbha cricket team, the Indian national team, Middlesex, and the Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Yadav's cricketing journey has been marked by remarkable achievements and memorable performances. He played a pivotal role in India's victory at the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. Known for his express pace and ability to trouble batsmen, Yadav has left an indelible mark on the sport.

His journey began with Vidarbha, where he debuted in first-class cricket in 2008. This marked the beginning of his steady rise as a fast bowler of significant promise. Yadav's journey was marked by his determination to succeed, even after initial setbacks in pursuing cricket as a career option. His transition from tennis ball cricket to professional leagues showcased his talent and dedication.

Yadav's domestic career with Vidarbha was soon followed by opportunities in the IPL. He initially represented Delhi Daredevils in the tournament, showcasing his potential as a wicket-taking bowler. Subsequently, he moved to the Kolkata Knight Riders and later to the Royal Challengers Bangalore. His consistently strong performances in the IPL solidified his reputation as a valuable asset in the shortest format of the game.

On the international stage, Yadav's debut for India in limited-overs cricket came in May 2010 against Zimbabwe. Over the years, he became an integral part of India's bowling lineup in both ODIs and Tests. Yadav's Test debut against the West Indies in November 2011 marked a significant milestone, and he continued to impress with his pace and wicket-taking abilities.

Notably, Yadav played a pivotal role in India's campaign during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, emerging as the highest wicket-taker for India and the third highest overall. His ability to generate raw pace and extract bounce from pitches made him a potent force.

Yadav's career has been characterized by standout performances, including his career-best figures of 12/79 in a Ranji Trophy match and his five-wicket haul in Test cricket. His aggressive bowling style, combined with a willingness to attack the stumps, has troubled some of the best batsmen in the world.

Beyond cricket, Yadav's personal life is marked by his marriage to fashion designer Tanya Wadhwa, and the couple is blessed with two daughters. Yadav's journey from facing challenges to becoming a key player in India's cricketing landscape is a testament to his perseverance, raw talent, and hard work