• Source:JND

IPL 2026: A sharp delivery sailed directly into the wicketkeeper’s gloves during Lucknow Super Giants’ recent practice. The familiar intensity was back. For Mayank Yadav, who made headlines in 2024 for bowling at 156.7 kmph, it signaled the return of his pace.

After a nine-month injury layoff, Mayank is trying to make a comeback. This layoff included special back surgery in New Zealand and long rehab at BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Injuries have repeatedly affected his growth. The journey has been mentally challenging and physically exhausting.

During the last 10 months, he has played just two competitive matches. Both took place before India's 2026 T20 World Cup stint, during which he played for India A.

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Mayank has worked on regaining full fitness. The young pacer now exudes confidence, showing that his lethal pace has returned.

"I am completely fine. I am on track. I don't have any issues. Let's see how fast I can bowl", Mayank said after attending the practice session.

Since his dream debut, Mayank’s journey has been marked by stop-start momentum. After winning consecutive Man of the Match awards during IPL 2024, injury struck. He was ruled out due to an abdominal strain after just four matches. In IPL 2025, Lucknow retained him for Rs 11 crore. Yet, he played only two matches because of a recurring lumbar stress fracture and a toe injury. Again, he was ruled out of the tournament.

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His back issue became severe, forcing surgery in New Zealand. Jasprit Bumrah had previously made the same decision to prolong his career.

BOWLING BACK TO CONFIDENCE

This long injury layoff forced Mayank to face reality. His body wasn’t ready to bowl at 155 kmph.

"I have had a very long lay-off from cricket. I have not been able to play a game for the last 8–9 months", he said.

"It's important that I come back with the same intensity. I want to show myself that I can replicate past performances. After surgery, questions will come: 'Will the old Mayank return?' So, it's important for me to return with the same intensity," he added.

All eyes are on Mayank this season. At the Centre of Excellence, he tried to reach 90 percent bowling intensity earlier this year. Now, his focus is on the longevity of his career.

"I can't pinpoint a single reason for my injuries. There could be many. My body is probably not mature enough for such intensity and impact," he said.

"I'm doing my best, but managing injuries isn't in my hands. I focus on the process. I never aimed for high pace alone. My focus is on control and contributing to my team," he added.

A SEASON OF REDEMPTION?

LSG retained Mayank, their X-factor, for Rs 11 crore before the IPL auction last year. The management’s support has not gone unnoticed. This season, Mayank won’t lead the fast bowling attack alone. He will share the responsibility with star pacer Mohammad Shami.

"Everybody dreams of playing for India. I have already made my debut. But this season is important for me because I want to get back to playing for India", he concluded.

LSG will face the Delhi Capitals in their tournament opener next month. Mayank will make his tournament comeback then. In net practice, he is nearing 150 kmph. This season, he aims to go from young sensation to consistent player.


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