Virat Played Under
When one thinks of Tejashwi Yadav, the first association is typically with politics, specifically his leadership role within the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and his notable contributions to Bihar’s political landscape. However, Tejashwi Yadav’s cricketing background often remains a surprising revelation to many. His cricket career, though relatively brief, holds its own interesting anecdotes, including the fact that Virat Kohli, India’s cricket sensation, once played under Tejashwi’s captaincy. In this article, we will explore Tejashwi Yadav’s journey from the cricket field to the political arena, focusing on the key moments of his cricketing stint and his connection to some of India’s cricket greats.
Tejashwi Yadav’s Early Life and Cricket Aspirations
Born into one of Bihar’s most prominent political families, Tejashwi Yadav is the son of Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi, both of whom served as Chief Ministers of Bihar. Despite his strong political lineage, Tejashwi was drawn to cricket at a young age. His passion for the sport was evident early on, and he worked hard to carve a path in professional cricket.
Tejashwi’s cricketing talent was nurtured during his school days, and he soon found himself playing at higher levels. By the mid-2000s, he was making headlines as a promising young cricketer.
The Delhi Daredevils Experience
Tejashwi Yadav’s stint with the Delhi Daredevils was a pivotal moment in his cricket career. Although he did not get significant playing time during his tenure with the team, his presence in a squad brimming with talent gave him the exposure to high-level cricket. He shared the dressing room with legends such as AB de Villiers, Gautam Gambhir, and Virender Sehwag—players who would leave an indelible mark on world cricket.
Perhaps one of the most interesting anecdotes from this time is the fact that Virat Kohli, now one of the greatest cricketers in the world, played under Tejashwi’s captaincy during their days in the Under-19 cricket circuit. Kohli’s rise in the cricketing world is well-documented, but it is often forgotten that he, too, had to prove himself in the junior levels, where Tejashwi captained the side on multiple occasions.
Before Virat Kohli became the global cricketing icon he is today, he played alongside many talented players in his formative years, including Tejashwi Yadav. The two played together in various domestic and youth tournaments. Tejashwi, being a captain in the early stages of their careers, is often remembered for leading a team that included a young Virat Kohli. Though their paths diverged—Kohli going on to become a cricket legend and Tejashwi pursuing a political career—their shared history on the cricket field remains a fascinating chapter in Indian cricket history.
Yadav’s leadership in youth cricket tournaments was marked by tactical astuteness and a keen understanding of the game. His teammates often praised his ability to remain calm under pressure and his knack for making strategic decisions during crucial moments. This ability to lead would later prove invaluable in his political career, but during his cricketing days, it was the key reason he captained teams that included rising stars like Virat Kohli.
Transition from Cricket to Politics
Despite his promising career in cricket, Tejashwi Yadav made the decision to leave the sport behind and focus on politics. In 2010, after a few seasons with the Delhi Daredevils and several years of playing domestic cricket, Tejashwi announced his decision to retire from professional cricket and devote himself entirely to politics.
This move was not entirely unexpected. As the son of Lalu Prasad Yadav, Tejashwi was always likely to enter the political arena at some point. His decision to transition to politics was influenced by the political environment in Bihar, where his family was deeply entrenched. However, his cricketing experiences were not wasted; the discipline, leadership, and teamwork that Tejashwi developed on the cricket field became vital tools in his political journey.
Tejashwi Yadav’s Rise in Politics
After leaving cricket, Tejashwi quickly rose through the ranks of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). His early forays into politics were guided by his father, but Tejashwi soon proved that he had the skills to carve his own path. His political career saw rapid growth, and he became the Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar in 2015 at the young age of 26.
His ability to connect with Bihar’s youth and articulate their needs has been one of his most significant political strengths. Much like his cricketing days, where he was known for being a calm and composed leader, Tejashwi has brought a level-headed approach to his political strategies. His speeches are often filled with cricketing metaphors, which resonate with his young supporters.
Leadership Lessons from Cricket
Tejashwi Yadav’s time as a cricketer, especially as a captain, undoubtedly influenced his leadership style in politics. Tejashwi’s cricketing background helped him build these essential skills, which he now applies in his political career.
His ability to work under pressure, both on the cricket field and in the political arena, has earned him respect. As a young politician, Tejashwi has faced several challenges, including navigating Bihar’s complex political landscape, dealing with opposition parties, and leading his party through tough electoral battles. His calm demeanor, a trait that can be traced back to his cricketing days, has been crucial in these moments.
A Journey from the Pitch to the Political Stage
Tejashwi Yadav’s journey from the cricket field to the political stage is a testament to his versatility and determination. His time in cricket, though brief, is filled with notable moments, including his leadership of future cricket legends like Virat Kohli. These experiences have shaped him into the leader he is today, influencing both his political decisions and his approach to public service.
Also Read More>..
Pakistan Retirement Age Debate: How Will it Impact Your Future?
About The Author
