Yash Dhull, the 2022 U-19 World Cup winning captain, recently underwent cardiac surgery after a hole was found in his heart during a routine check-up by the National Cricket Academy (NCA) physios.
The 22-year-old Delhi cricketer was attending a camp in Bengaluru a couple of months ago when the anomaly was spotted, and surgery was recommended as the course of action to amend the issue.
Successful Surgery and Recovery
Dhull underwent the surgery in Delhi, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was kept in the loop, with the board keeping close tabs on the events that unfolded. According to Dhull’s father Vijay, the hole in the heart was a condition from birth and not serious. Dhull has already been granted the fit-to-play certificate by the NCA and is expected to feature in the upcoming domestic season, including red-ball cricket.
Recovery and Current Performance
Post-surgery, Yash Dhull has been gradually working on his recovery and has returned to competitive cricket in the ongoing Delhi Premier League (DPL). However, his performance has been less than stellar, with only 93 runs in five matches at an average below 20.
Observers have noted a visible struggle in his game, attributing it to the recent health challenges he faced.
Dhull himself acknowledged the difficulty of returning to form, stating, “Certain things have happened in the past, and I have returned after a recovery. It’s taking time but I am positive and will give 100% for my game”.
Despite these challenges, both his childhood coach, Pradeep Kochar, and the Central Delhi support staff have expressed optimism about his future in cricket.
They believe that with continued support and time, Dhull will regain his form and contribute significantly to his team.
Bright Prospect for Team India
Dhull played with Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL 2023 and has been treated as a bright prospect for Team India.
Despite the recent setback, his childhood coach Pradeep Kochar believes that Dhull will make the most of the upcoming domestic season and be on the selectors’ radar even more prominently.
