Resurgence of Sonu Yadav: A Memorable Five-Wicket Haul Against Odisha in Ranji 2025-26

Sonu Yadav achieved his first five-wicket haul (5/30) against Odisha in the Ranji Trophy at KIIT Stadium on Friday, thanks to his keen understanding of the conditions, a well-executed strategy, and the confidence gained from his return to the Tamil Nadu team.

Following the second day’s play in the Elite Group ‘A’ sixth-round match, the seam-bowling all-rounder explained how he utilized the new ball, early moisture, and a straightforward plan. “I noticed there was assistance for the new ball even on Thursday morning. We were sure there would be help on Friday morning too,” explained Sonu, who was given the responsibility of the new ball for the first time this season.

Tamil Nadu’s bowlers sensed something was in the pitch as they batted. “When they bowled to us, we were seven down (281 for seven). Three wickets fell in three overs (all out for 286),” Sonu recalled. This reinforced the plan to attack early using the moisture in the wicket.

Sonu maintained a stump-to-stump line, avoiding the temptation to overdo it. “The wicket wasn’t very bouncy; it was more skiddy,” he noted. “By keeping it on the stumps, I knew I could get lbw or bowled dismissals.”

The plan worked effectively as the anticipated seam movement materialized and led to three lbw wickets and one bowled dismissal. “It was coming back in nicely, which was exactly what I aimed for,” Sonu shared, highlighting the decisive role of the nip-backer that resulted in leg-before dismissals.

This performance was particularly significant for Sonu, as he was not part of Tamil Nadu’s initial Ranji Trophy squad this season and was called in only after a few matches. “I definitely felt bad about missing the first two matches,” he admitted.

However, communication from the team management kept him prepared. “They told me they’d definitely call me, which gave me the confidence that my opportunity would come,” he said.

Sonu learned the use of the bowling crease from Tamil Nadu coach Senthilnathan, known for his work with Glenn McGrath at the MRF Pace Foundation. “He has been there for so many years and keeps providing technical inputs. Even today, he spoke to me at lunch, reminding me to use the crease effectively, which was very helpful,” said the 26-year-old.

The five-wicket haul was a milestone he had longed for. “I had been wanting it for a long time. Last year, I had two three-fors and a four-for.” When he reached four wickets on Friday, his determination increased. “I felt I needed to get it today because I don’t know when the next opportunity will come. I was ready to bowl whenever necessary for however long it took to get that fifth wicket,” Sonu stated.

When it finally came, the joy was straightforward and pure. “I was very happy,” he expressed, satisfied that patience, persistence, and belief had finally aligned.

Published on Jan 23, 2026.