Tejashwi Yadav, known today as a key figure in Bihar politics, had a brief yet notable career in cricket before stepping into the political arena. The son of former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, Tejashwi once captained Indian cricket star Virat Kohli during their early cricketing days in Delhi. Though his political career has taken center stage, Tejashwi’s experience on the cricket field is often overshadowed.
Tejashwi Yadav: The Cricketer Who Led Virat Kohli
Tejashwi, who was part of Delhi’s age-group cricket team, revealed in an interview that Virat Kohli, now one of India’s greatest batsmen, played under his captaincy. He mentioned that despite his achievements in cricket, this part of his life is rarely discussed. During his cricketing days, Tejashwi played alongside many future Indian cricket team players, making significant contributions to the sport before his career was cut short.
Injury Forces Tejashwi to Leave Cricket
Tejashwi had to step away from cricket due to a severe ligament injury. In the same interview, he mentioned that his professional cricket career ended after both his ligaments were fractured, leading him to retire from the sport in 2013. He also revealed that several Indian players from his cricketing batch continued their careers, while he shifted focus to politics.
Tejashwi’s Short Cricket Career
Tejashwi Yadav made his professional debut for Jharkhand in 2009, playing one first-class match, two List A matches, and four T20 games. Although his cricket career did not soar as high as some of his peers, he briefly played for Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the IPL. With 20 runs in first-class cricket and a lone wicket, Tejashwi’s time in the sport was limited but eventful.
From Cricket to Politics: Tejashwi’s Transition
In 2010, while still involved in cricket, Tejashwi began his political journey by campaigning for the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). He officially left cricket in 2013 and entered full-time politics. He won the 2015 Bihar Assembly election and served as the Deputy Chief Minister, shaping his future as a key political figure in the state.
