Yash Raj Punja Biography, Age, Height, Net Worth, Domestic Career & IPL Auction Profile
Yash Raj Punja is one of the most exciting young spin-bowling prospects to emerge from Karnataka. A tall leg-spinner with steep bounce, Punja has quickly gained attention following his outstanding performances in domestic T20 cricket and his exposure within an IPL setup.
Yash Raj Punja IPL 2026 Auction – Final Result
💰 Final Auction Price: ₹30 Lakh
💗 Team: Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Yash Raj Punja was acquired by Rajasthan Royals for ₹30 lakh at the IPL 2026 auction, marking an important step in his young career. RR’s scouting unit has a strong history of backing promising uncapped talents, and Punja’s unique profile as a tall, bounce-generating leg-spinner fits perfectly into their long-term strategy.
At Rajasthan Royals, Yash Raj Punja is expected to be groomed as a developmental spin option, gaining valuable exposure while providing variety in the nets and potential impact in select matches thanks to his height and wicket-taking ability.
Who is Yash Raj Punja?
Yash Raj Punja is an Indian leg-spin bowler who represents Karnataka in domestic cricket. Known for his unusual height and sharp leg-breaks, he offers bounce, drift, and variation — attributes that are rare and highly valued in T20 cricket.
His rise accelerated after impressive league performances and recognition from experienced international voices.
Yash Raj Punja Age & Early Life
Yash Raj Punja was born in 2006 in Karnataka, India.
As of 2026, he is 19 years old.
From a young age, he showed a natural aptitude for spin bowling, using his height to extract extra bounce and trouble batters. His development was further accelerated through exposure as a net bowler in elite environments.
Physical Attributes
- Age (as of 2026): 19 Years
- Height: Approx. 6 feet 6 inches
- Batting Style: Right-handed
- Bowling Style: Leg-break
- Role: Bowler
His exceptional height makes him a unique prospect, allowing him to bowl from awkward angles with sharp bounce.
Domestic Cricket Career
Yash Raj Punja’s domestic rise has been swift and impactful.
IPL Net Bowler Experience
In 2024, Punja served as a net bowler for Rajasthan Royals, where his height and leg-spin caught widespread attention. His potential was publicly highlighted by Ian Bishop, who noted his towering presence and natural attributes.
This exposure placed him firmly on the radar of franchise scouts.
Maharaja Trophy Performance
Punja delivered a breakout season in the Maharaja Trophy, playing for the Hubli Tigers:
- Matches: 10
- Wickets: 23
- Average: 12.48
- Tournament Rank: Second-highest wicket-taker
His consistency, control, and wicket-taking ability made him one of the standout spinners of the competition.
Playing Style & Strengths
Yash Raj Punja is a modern attacking leg-spinner with rare physical advantages.
Key Strengths:
- Exceptional height generates steep bounce
- Sharp leg-break with drift
- Difficult release point for batters
- Effective wicket-taking option in T20s
- Calm temperament despite young age
His skill set suits conditions where bounce and variation are crucial.
Yash Raj Punja Net Worth
As of 2026, Yash Raj Punja’s estimated net worth is around:
💰 ₹15–25 lakh (approx.)
Sources of Income:
- Domestic cricket match fees
- State and league cricket earnings
- Net bowler stints with IPL franchises
- Tournament allowances
With an IPL contract, his earnings and profile could rise sharply.
Yash Raj Punja IPL Auction Profile
Yash Raj Punja is part of the first set of uncapped spinners listed ahead of the IPL auction.
Why IPL Teams May Be Interested:
- Tall leg-spinner with rare bounce
- Proven wicket-taker in T20 leagues
- Young age with high ceiling
- IPL net bowler exposure
- Suitable long-term project
Auction Outlook:
Franchises often invest in unique spin profiles, and Punja’s attributes combined with recent returns make him a strong candidate to attract interest.
Future Prospects
At just 19, Yash Raj Punja is at the beginning of his professional journey. With continued development, he has the potential to:
- Secure an IPL squad role
- Become a regular feature in Karnataka’s setup
- Establish himself as a specialist T20 leg-spinner
His physical gifts and early success make him a high-upside prospect.
Personal Life
Yash Raj Punja maintains a low public profile and remains focused on training, fitness, and refining his leg-spin craft.
Conclusion
Yash Raj Punja’s rise highlights the value of unique attributes in modern cricket. With exceptional height, sharp leg-spin, and proven T20 impact, he stands out as one of the most intriguing uncapped spinners heading into the IPL auctions.
