Of Pakistani heritage, Yahya is a right-handed batter and right-arm fast-medium bowler who grew up in Auckland. After playing for Auckland Under-19 2020-22 and Auckland A 2022-24, Yahya moved to Wellington and played his first Ford Trophy game against the Auckland Aces at Mt Maunganui in October 2024. He made his first-class debut for the Firebirds against the Aces at Eden Park Outer Oval in December 2025.