IPL 2025: Langer confirms Mayank Yadav bowling at '90-95 percent'

IANS April 5, 2025 351 views

Lucknow Super Giants are eagerly anticipating Mayank Yadav's return to their bowling lineup after a challenging injury period. Justin Langer has provided an optimistic update, revealing that the young speedster is currently bowling at 90-95% intensity at the National Cricket Academy. Yadav's potential comeback could significantly boost LSG's performance in IPL 2025, given his remarkable pace and wicket-taking abilities from last season. The team has been managing with a depleted bowling attack, making his return even more crucial.

"I don't think there's been a bowler in India who's bowled faster than Mayank Yadav" - Justin Langer
IPL 2025: Langer confirms Mayank Yadav bowling at '90-95 percent'
Lucknow, April 5: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) head coach Justin Langer has offered a promising update on tearaway pacer Mayank Yadav, revealing that the speedster is bowling at “90 to 95 percent” intensity at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and could return to the squad in the coming weeks.

Key Points

1

Mayank Yadav recovering from back and toe injuries at NCA

2

LSG facing significant bowling lineup challenges

3

Speedster expected to return soon

Speaking after LSG's thrilling win over Mumbai Indians on Friday night, Langer sounded upbeat about Mayank's recovery. "Mayank is up and running, which is really great for Indian cricket and for the IPL. I saw some video of him bowling yesterday at the NCA. He was bowling at about 90 to 95%," Langer said in the post-match press conference.

"We saw the impact he had last year. I don't think there's been a bowler in India who's bowled faster than Mayank Yadav -- that's why there's so much talk about him."

Mayank has been sidelined with a back injury and was close to returning earlier this season before a freak toe injury -- sustained after stubbing it against his bed -- caused an infection that further delayed his comeback. While Langer did not provide a definitive return date, he indicated that the pacer is edging closer to a much-anticipated return.

"He's keen to get going. The NCA have done a great job with our bowlers -- they got Avesh Khan and Akash Deep back for us, and now hopefully Mayank as well," he added.

The 21-year-old speedster took the IPL by storm last season with his raw pace and wicket-taking ability, consistently clocking speeds above 150 km/h. His return will be a massive boost for LSG, who have had to manage a severely depleted bowling lineup since the start of IPL 2025.

LSG's injury crisis began before the season opener with Mohsin Khan, Mayank, Avesh Khan, and Akash Deep all unavailable. The franchise brought in veteran Shardul Thakur to bolster the attack, and the move has paid dividends. Thakur has picked up seven wickets in four matches, including a match-defining 19th over against Mumbai, where he gave away just seven runs despite facing the dangerous duo of Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma.

Akash Deep made his return on Friday, finishing with figures of 4-0-46-1, while Avesh has played three matches but has struggled with economy, collecting just two wickets so far.

While LSG's bowling resources have been stretched thin, the performances of Thakur and the gradual return of key players have kept them competitive.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
So excited to see Mayank back in action! His pace last season was unreal 🔥 Hope he stays injury-free this time. LSG really needs that firepower in their bowling attack.
P
Priya M.
Stubbing his toe against the bed? 😅 That's such an unfortunate way to delay a comeback. Shows how fragile athletes' bodies can be. Wishing him a full recovery!
A
Arjun S.
While Mayank's return is great news, I'm concerned about rushing him back. LSG's medical team should be extra cautious with young fast bowlers - we've seen too many careers cut short by recurring injuries.
N
Neha P.
Shardul Thakur has been such a smart buy! Proving his worth in every match. Imagine when Mayank joins him - LSG's bowling attack will be 🔥🔥
V
Vikram J.
That 19th over from Thakur was pure class! If Mayank can bring that same energy, LSG might just become title contenders. The young man bowls with serious heat!
S
Sanjay R.
I appreciate Langer's transparency about Mayank's recovery. Too often coaches give vague updates. 90-95% is specific and reassuring for fans waiting to see this young talent.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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