Radha Yadav is an Indian cricketer born April 21, 2000. World Cup 2025 winner, left-arm spinner. Net worth ₹3-4 crore. Read her complete biography.
Radha Yadav has emerged as one of India’s most promising left-arm spinners in women’s cricket. Born on April 21, 2000, in Kandivli, Mumbai, she made history as the first female cricketer from the Gujarat cricket team to represent India internationally. Her journey from playing gully cricket in a cramped Mumbai locality to winning the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup is nothing short of inspirational.
The 25-year-old slow left-arm orthodox bowler has become a key member of India’s limited-overs squad since her debut in 2018. Known for her accuracy, control, and exceptional fielding skills, Radha has taken over 100 wickets in T20Is for India. Her recent triumph at the 2025 Women’s World Cup and the WPL 2026 title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru has cemented her status as one of India’s finest cricketers.
Quick Facts About Radha Yadav
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Radha Yadav |
| Date of Birth | April 21, 2000 |
| Age | 25 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Kandivli, Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Profession | Cricketer (Bowler) |
| Bowling Style | Slow Left-Arm Orthodox |
| Batting Style | Right-Hand Bat |
| Net Worth | ₹3-4 Crore (approx.) |
| International Debut | February 13, 2018 (vs South Africa) |
| Teams | India, Baroda, Royal Challengers Bengaluru |
| Famous For | 2025 World Cup Winner, 100+ T20I wickets |
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Radha Yadav was born prematurely in the seventh month in Kandivli (West), Mumbai. Her family originally hails from Jaunpur district in Uttar Pradesh. She grew up in a 225 square-foot house located behind her father’s vegetable stall, which was placed outside a society redeveloped under the Slum Redevelopment Area scheme.
Her father, Omprakash Yadav, ran a vegetable stall and also sold milk to support the family financially. Despite their modest means, her parents prioritized their children’s dreams. Radha has two elder brothers, Deepak Yadav and Rahul Yadav, and an elder sister named Sonee Yadav. Her mother, a homemaker, provided unwavering emotional support throughout Radha’s journey.
Growing up in financial constraints didn’t dampen Radha’s spirit. She began playing cricket in her society’s compound with boys, using borrowed equipment. This early exposure to competitive cricket with male players helped develop her resilience and skill. Those gully cricket sessions would prove to be the foundation of her remarkable career.
Education and Early Training
Radha attended Anandibai Damodar Kale Vidyalaya initially before her cricket coach suggested a school change to support her sporting ambitions. In 2013, she shifted to Our Lady of Remedy High School in Kandivali West, Mumbai. Later, she also attended Vidya Kunj School. While academics weren’t her strongest suit, she excelled in sports from an early age.
During her school years, Radha participated in multiple sports including badminton, kabaddi, and kho kho. Her athletic versatility demonstrated natural sporting talent. However, cricket was where she truly found her calling. The switch to Our Lady of Remedy proved pivotal as the school offered a better sports environment that nurtured her cricketing abilities.
Discovery by Coach Prafful Naik
The turning point in Radha’s life came when coach Prafful Naik spotted her playing gully cricket in her society. Impressed by her exceptional bowling and fielding skills at such a young age, Naik offered to train her. Radha was just 12 years old at that time. Naik spoke to Omprakash Yadav to seek permission, and her father agreed despite concerns about meeting expenses.
Understanding the family’s financial situation, Naik generously offered to cover all coaching fees and equipment costs. This act of kindness removed a major barrier for the Yadav family. Radha began learning the nuances of cricket from Naik at the Shiv Seva ground in Borivli. Initially, only 3-4 girls attended practice sessions, and Radha used other players’ kits before getting her own equipment.
Coach Naik’s investment in Radha’s talent paid tremendous dividends. Under his guidance, she developed her bowling technique and fielding prowess. His mentorship transformed a talented street cricketer into a polished athlete ready for competitive cricket. This relationship became the bedrock of her future success.
The Bold Move to Vadodara
When Coach Naik decided to shift to Vadodara with his family, Radha faced a difficult decision. Rather than find a new coach in Mumbai, she chose to move to Vadodara to continue training under Naik. This required her father’s permission, which he granted after recognizing her commitment to the sport.
The move to Vadodara in the 2014-15 season marked a new chapter in Radha’s career. She began representing Baroda women’s cricket team in domestic tournaments. This shift proved strategic as it opened doors that might have remained closed in Mumbai’s competitive cricket scene. Gujarat cricket provided her with better opportunities to showcase her talent.
Playing for Baroda, Radha quickly made her mark. Her performances in domestic cricket caught the attention of national selectors. She became the first female cricketer from Gujarat to represent India internationally, a distinction that fills her with immense pride. The gamble of moving cities had paid off spectacularly.
Domestic Cricket Journey
Radha made her senior domestic debut for Mumbai on January 10, 2015, against Kerala when she was just 14 years old. After moving to Baroda, she played in multiple tournaments including the Under-19 West Zone tournament, senior women’s one-day tournament, senior women’s T20 tournament, and Under-23 West Zone one-day tournament.
Her breakthrough performance came during a tournament where she took nine wickets and scored an unbeaten 32 runs in six T20 matches for Baroda. This outstanding all-round performance secured her place in the Indian women’s squad for the T20 international series against South Africa in 2018. She was overwhelmed with emotion when the selection news came.
In addition to cricket, Radha also participated in other sporting events. In 2016, she won the Vadodara International Marathon Relay in the 10 km category along with her teammates. This demonstrated her overall fitness and competitive spirit across different athletic disciplines.
International Cricket Breakthrough
Radha made her Women’s Twenty20 International debut for India against South Africa on February 13, 2018, at the tender age of 17. In that match, she finished with figures of 0-21, a respectable debut despite not taking a wicket. She replaced the injured Rajeshwari Gayakwad in the PayTM Women’s T20 Triangular Series.
Shortly after her debut, Radha was selected for India’s 2018 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup squad in the West Indies. This was a remarkable achievement for someone so young and relatively inexperienced. She grasped the opportunity with both hands and ended the tournament as India’s joint-highest wicket-taker with eight wickets in just five matches.
Her impressive World Cup performance established her as a regular member of India’s limited-overs squads. She made her ODI debut against South Africa on March 14, 2021. In May 2021, she was named in India’s Test squad for their one-off match against England women’s team. Her career trajectory showed consistent upward momentum.
Historic 2025 Women’s World Cup Victory
The 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup, held in India, was the pinnacle of Radha’s career. The entire nation had high expectations, and the pressure on the team was immense. Radha recalled that everyone in the team kept telling each other, “We have to win the World Cup. It is in India and it will be very special.”
India’s journey to the final wasn’t smooth. They faced elimination threats after three successive defeats against South Africa, Australia, and England in the league stage. However, the team showed remarkable resilience to qualify for the semi-finals. In the semi-final, India pulled off a record run-chase of 339 runs against Australia in Navi Mumbai.
The final against South Africa at the DY Patil Stadium on November 2, 2025, was a historic occasion. India batted first and posted 298/7, with Shafali Verma scoring 87 and Deepti Sharma contributing 58. Although Radha conceded 45 runs in her 5 overs without taking a wicket in the final, the team’s collective effort was enough. India defended the total, winning by 52 runs to claim their maiden World Cup title.
Radha appeared in three matches during the World Cup, including the semi-final and final, taking four crucial wickets. For the team, the victory was redemption after heartbreaking losses in the 2005 and 2017 finals. India became the first women’s team from Asia to win a global title across formats. The celebrations that followed were unforgettable.
WPL Success with Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Radha was bought at a base price of INR 40 lakh in the first-ever Women’s Premier League auction. She played for Delhi Capitals for three seasons, becoming a crucial part of their spin cabinet. In WPL 2024, she was DC’s second-highest wicket-taker with 10 wickets in nine games.
For the WPL 2026 season, Royal Challengers Bengaluru acquired Radha for INR 65 lakh. This move proved to be a masterstroke. RCB topped the group stage by winning six out of eight matches. The final against Delhi Capitals on February 5, 2026, was a dramatic encounter.
Chasing 204, RCB seemed to be cruising before losing three quick wickets in just 14 balls. With eight runs needed off four balls, Radha Yadav hit two consecutive boundaries off Shree Charani to complete a thrilling chase. Her winning boundary, accompanied by a dislodged bail, created a dramatic finish. RCB won by 6 wickets with 2 balls remaining.
The victory gave RCB their second WPL title and Radha her first WPL championship. In the post-match interview, she said the WPL trophy ranked just below the World Cup in significance. Her ability to perform under pressure in the final over demonstrated her mental toughness and finishing skills.
Playing Style and Strengths
Radha Yadav is a slow left-arm orthodox bowler known for her accuracy, control, and ability to turn the ball both ways. Her dangerous arm ball is a potent weapon in her arsenal. She is fearless in bowling during death overs, a responsibility many spinners shy away from. Her variations and flight make her difficult to attack.
As a right-hand batter, Radha bats in the lower order but contributes valuable runs when needed. Her 32 not out in a domestic match showcased her batting potential. She is a dependable all-rounder who can change the course of a match with either bat or ball.
However, it is her fielding that truly sets Radha apart. She is widely regarded as one of the best fielders in women’s cricket. Her agility, sharp reflexes, and alertness save numerous runs for her team. Her run-out of Nigar Sultana during the World Cup was described as pure instinct and game awareness.
Career Statistics and Milestones
As of early 2026, Radha Yadav has taken 97 wickets in 81 T20I matches at an impressive economy rate. She is one of only two women to have taken more than 100 wickets in T20Is for India. Her ODI record shows 4 wickets in five matches, though she plays more regularly in the T20 format.
One of her most remarkable achievements was taking at least one wicket in 27 consecutive T20Is, setting a record. She took a five-wicket haul in a T20I against South Africa, demonstrating her match-winning capabilities. Her experience across multiple T20 World Cups has made her a seasoned campaigner despite her young age.
Deepti Sharma named her as the Player of the Tournament for the 2025 Women’s World Cup, highlighting her overall contributions. Radha’s 100-plus T20I wickets place her among the elite bowlers in women’s cricket globally. Her consistency and longevity at the highest level speak volumes about her skill and dedication.
Personal Life and Interests
As of 2026, Radha Yadav is unmarried and focused entirely on her cricket career. She maintains a relatively private personal life, though she is active on social media platforms. Her Instagram account (@radhay21) has over 511,000 followers, where she shares cricket moments, team achievements, and personal pictures.
In her spare time, Radha enjoys watching films, dancing, and traveling. She is a bike enthusiast who loves riding sports bikes. Despite her love for chocolates and ice cream, she refrains from indulging to maintain her fitness. Her disciplined lifestyle reflects her professional approach to cricket.
Radha follows Hinduism and comes from the Yadav community, which is mainly found in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Her family has instilled strong cultural values in her. She credits her parents and siblings for their unwavering support throughout her journey. She often visits her home in Kandivli and remains deeply connected to her roots.
Her favorite cricketer is England’s Ben Stokes, whom she admires for his all-round abilities and fighting spirit. She has also mentioned the spiritual significance of their team’s visit to Mahakaal temple in Ujjain before the World Cup, indicating her belief in combining dedication with spirituality.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2025, Radha Yadav’s estimated net worth is approximately ₹3-4 crore. Her income sources include match fees from the BCCI, WPL contracts, and brand endorsements. She is placed in Grade C in the BCCI’s central player contract list, earning around ₹10 lakh annually from this contract.
Additionally, she earns match fees of ₹15 lakh for a Test match, ₹6 lakh for an ODI, and ₹3 lakh for a T20I match. Her WPL contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru fetched her ₹65 lakh for the 2026 season, up from ₹40 lakh with Delhi Capitals. Social media endorsements provide supplementary income.
Her estimated annual income from social media and endorsements ranges between $129,600 to $177,100, according to influencer analytics. As women’s cricket continues to grow in India, her earning potential is expected to increase significantly. Her World Cup victory and WPL championship have elevated her marketability.
Awards and Recognition
Following India’s historic World Cup victory, the BCCI announced a cash reward of ₹51 crore for the players, coaching staff, and support staff. The team was felicitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 5, 2025, at his residence in New Delhi. They were also honored by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on November 6, 2025.
Radha, along with Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues, received the Maharashtra Gaurav award and ₹2.25 crore from the Maharashtra government. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis honored the three players at his official residence. Radha stated this was the first time she received such an honor and called it a memorable moment in her career.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also met Radha in Gandhinagar and congratulated her on the team’s stupendous achievement. He wished her a bright and successful future. These recognitions reflect how Radha’s success has brought pride to multiple states and the entire nation.
Impact and Legacy
Radha Yadav’s rise from Mumbai’s cramped lanes to international cricket stardom has made her a role model for young girls from underprivileged backgrounds. Her story demonstrates that talent and determination can overcome financial constraints and societal barriers. She has inspired countless aspiring cricketers across India.
Her achievement of being Gujarat’s first female international cricketer opened doors for women’s cricket in the state. She has shown that moving states for better opportunities is a valid career strategy. Her success has encouraged cricket associations to invest more in women’s cricket infrastructure.
Radha’s journey also highlights the importance of supportive coaches and families. Coach Prafful Naik’s willingness to waive fees and her father’s permission to move cities were crucial turning points. Her elder sister Sonee, who couldn’t pursue cricket professionally due to financial problems, has always encouraged Radha to fulfill their shared dreams.
The Road Ahead
At just 25 years old, Radha Yadav has many years of cricket ahead of her. With her experience across formats and leagues, she continues to be viewed as an important part of India’s long-term plans in white-ball cricket. Her performances in the WPL have added a new dimension to her game.
Looking ahead, Radha aims to win more titles for India. In her WPL 2026 final interview, she mentioned, “Hopefully I can win a World Cup in the future, who knows.” This suggests she’s already setting her sights on future ICC events. Her hunger for success remains undiminished despite recent triumphs.
The growth of women’s cricket in India, accelerated by the World Cup victory, presents new opportunities. Higher salaries, better contracts, and more international exposure await. Radha is well-positioned to capitalize on these developments and establish herself as one of the all-time greats of Indian women’s cricket.
Final Thoughts
Radha Yadav’s journey from a vegetable vendor’s daughter to a World Cup-winning cricketer is one of the most inspiring stories in Indian sports. Her premature birth, financial struggles, and determination to succeed against all odds make her achievement even more remarkable. She embodies the fighting spirit that defines Indian cricket.
Her calm temperament, accuracy, and crafty variations have made her an invaluable asset for India. Whether it’s taking crucial wickets, saving runs with brilliant fielding, or hitting winning boundaries under pressure, Radha has proven she can deliver when it matters most. Her versatility makes her indispensable to any team she plays for.
As she continues her cricketing journey, Radha Yadav stands as a beacon of hope for millions of young girls who dream of representing India. Her story proves that with the right support, dedication, and belief in oneself, no dream is too big. The best chapters of her career may still be unwritten, and the cricketing world eagerly awaits what she accomplishes next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is Radha Yadav?
Radha Yadav is an Indian cricketer born on April 21, 2000, in Kandivli, Mumbai. She is a slow left-arm orthodox bowler and right-hand batter who plays for India, Baroda, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. She is best known for being part of India’s 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup winning team.
Q2: What is Radha Yadav’s age?
Radha Yadav is 25 years old as of 2026. She was born on April 21, 2000, making her zodiac sign Taurus. She made her international debut at just 17 years of age.
Q3: What is Radha Yadav’s net worth?
Radha Yadav’s estimated net worth is approximately ₹3-4 crore as of 2025. Her wealth comes from BCCI contracts, WPL salaries, match fees, and brand endorsements. She earned ₹65 lakh from her WPL 2026 contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Q4: Which teams does Radha Yadav play for?
Radha Yadav plays for the Indian national women’s cricket team, Baroda in domestic cricket, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League. She previously played for Delhi Capitals in the WPL for three seasons before moving to RCB.
Q5: What are Radha Yadav’s major achievements?
Radha’s major achievements include winning the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup with India, winning the WPL 2026 title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, taking 100+ wickets in T20Is for India, and being India’s joint-highest wicket-taker in the 2018 T20 World Cup. She is also the first female cricketer from Gujarat to represent India.
Q6: Is Radha Yadav married?
No, Radha Yadav is currently unmarried. She is focused on her cricket career and has not publicly shared information about any relationships. She maintains a private personal life while being active on social media.
Q7: What is Radha Yadav’s bowling style?
Radha Yadav is a slow left-arm orthodox bowler known for her accuracy, control, and dangerous arm ball. She can turn the ball both ways and is fearless in bowling during death overs. She is also recognized as one of the best fielders in women’s cricket.
