Justin Langer confirmed Mayank Yadav bowled close to full intensity at the NCA and could return soon.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) head coach Justin Langer shared a positive update on Mayank Yadav’s recovery, revealing that the Indian pacer is nearing a return to full fitness. Speaking after LSG’s close win over Mumbai Indians on Friday, Langer said that Mayank was bowling at “90 to 95 percent” intensity at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and might rejoin the squad in the coming weeks.
“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 during the post-match press conference.
The LSG coach also praised Mayank’s raw pace and impact in last year’s IPL season. “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,” Langer added.
Mayank has been out of action due to a back injury. Just when he was on the verge of returning earlier this season, he suffered a freak toe injury after stubbing it against his bed. The injury led to an infection, delaying his comeback further. Although Langer did not confirm a specific return date, he sounded confident about the young speedster’s progress.
“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 said. The 21-year-old pacer had impressed everyone last season with his express pace, regularly bowling over 150 km/h and picking up key wickets. His comeback will be a major boost for LSG, who have struggled with injuries in their bowling department throughout IPL 2025.
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LSG were hit by injuries even before the season began, with Mohsin Khan, Mayank, Avesh Khan, and Akash Deep all unavailable at one point. To fill the gap, the franchise roped in experienced pacer Shardul Thakur, who has delivered crucial spells. Thakur has claimed seven wickets in four matches and played a key role in Friday’s win against Mumbai, bowling a game-changing 19th over where he conceded only seven runs despite facing Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma.
Akash Deep returned to the playing XI against Mumbai and finished with figures of 4-0-46-1. Meanwhile, Avesh Khan has played three games so far but has been a bit expensive, taking only two wickets. Despite a thin bowling lineup, LSG have remained competitive thanks to standout performances from Thakur and the gradual return of key bowlers.
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