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Who is Sarthak Ranjan? Popular Politician Pappu Yadav's son set to play for KKR in IPL 2026

Prachi Rajan

Pappu Yadav's son Sarthak Ranjan (X.com/@ashishayush1177)Pappu Yadav's son Sarthak Ranjan (X.com/@ashishayush1177)

One of the most talked-about events of the year, the Indian Premier League (IPL) mini auction 2026, concluded on Tuesday. Out of 369 names, only 156 went under the hammer, and only 77 made the cut, and Bihar MP Puppa Yadav's son, Sarthak Ranjan, was one of them. 

The 29-year-old spent the majority of his life under his father's shadow, with his identity revolving only around being 'Pappu Yadav's son'. However, in the marquee bidding war, Sarthak secured his biggest breakthrough after the three-time IPL winner, Kolkata Knight Riders, acquired his services for INR 30 Lakh. 

Sarthak Ranjan's father applauds his son's maiden IPL breakthrough 

As soon as Sarthak officially entered his name in the cash-rich tournament, Rajesh Ranjan (famously known as Pappu Yadav) expressed his delight on X, writing: "Now, our identity will be known by the name of Sarthak!" 

The influential politician from Bihar further hailed his son: "बधाई बेटू जमकर, खेलो अपने प्रतिभा के दम पर अपनी पहचान बनाओ अपनी चाहत पूरी करो!" (Congratulations, dear! Play with full passion. On the strength of your talent, build your own identity, fulfil your dreams!)

Amid Sarthak's breakthrough moment, Pappu Yadav ensured the focus remained on his son, who always wanted to make his own identity.

Delhi Premier League gave Sarthak the crucial launchpad after years of turmoil 

Right-handed opening batter, Sarthak plays for Delhi in the domestic circuit and had a tremendous run in the age-group cricket. As of now, he has played two first-class games, 4 List A matches, and five T20s for DDCA. 

Notably, the newly introduced Delhi Premier League (DPL) gave him a launchpad to showcase his talent and batting prowess. Playing for North Delhi Strikers in the first season, Ranjan scored 252 runs in 10 innings, good stats but not enough to leave a mark. 

Nonetheless, in the second edition, he turned the wind in his favour, amassing 449 in 9 matches, starring with a century and four fifties. Thus, KKR scouts entrusted the talent and decided to give him an IPL opportunity.