Shardul Thakur has been reportedly finalized as Lucknow Super Giants’ (LSG) replacement for the injured Mohsin Khan ahead of IPL 2025, though concerns linger over young pacer Mayank Yadav’s availability for the upcoming season.
Thakur, who joined LSG’s pre-season preparations early, will step in for Mohsin, sidelined by recurring injuries, and is slated to travel with the squad for their opener against Delhi Capitals in Visakhapatnam.
Mohsin’s struggles began with an ACL injury in December, followed by a calf strain during net sessions, derailing his comeback. With LSG’s pace unit depleted—Akash Deep and Mayank Yadav remain at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy (NCA), while Avesh Khan recovers from a knee issue—the franchise turned to Thakur’s experience to bolster their attack.
Mayank Yadav, recovering from a series of injuries (side strain, hamstring, and back problems) sustained during last year’s Bangladesh T20Is, has yet to regain full fitness. Despite resuming light bowling drills, his participation in the season remains uncertain.
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LSG mentor Zaheer Khan addressed the challenges, stating, “The situation is dynamic for some of our players due to injuries. But it’s time we look for positives and adopt strategies to tackle this amicably. Some players are at the NCA, others are working with physios,” as quoted by TOI.
Thakur, renowned for his all-phase bowling prowess, is now poised to lead LSG’s pace department, offering stability amid the team’s injury woes. His inclusion adds depth to a lineup grappling with fitness setbacks, as the franchise aims to navigate the season with a reshaped attack.
