Zaheer Khan hopeful about Mayank Yadav's return in IPL 2025
What's the story
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) mentor, Zaheer Khan, is hopeful of the return of fast bowler Mayank Yadav in the next Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Yadav is currently recovering from a back injury at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, and his fitness progress is being monitored closely by Khan and his team. The LSG mentor recently opened up about these developments with The Times of India.
Recovery roadmap
Khan reveals discussions with NCA about Yadav's recovery
Khan revealed that he has been in talks with the NCA about Yadav's recovery and fitness plan. He stressed Yadav's importance not just to LSG but also to the Indian cricket team. "We've had some interesting conversations on his roadmap to recovery and fitness with the NCA," Khan said. He added, "He is not only important for LSG but also for Indian cricket."
Fitness commitment
LSG's commitment to Yadav's fitness and performance
Khan reiterated LSG's commitment to getting Yadav to peak fitness. "A bowler of his caliber should play consistently for a long time," he said. Khan further added, "We want him 150% fit, so we will do everything possible to get him in top fitness." This statement highlights the team's commitment to supporting Yadav through his recovery and their high expectations from him once he recovers.
Career challenges
Yadav's IPL journey and injury setbacks
Yadav was first signed by LSG in the 2022 IPL auction, but he missed the season due to injuries. His 2024 IPL debut was impressive with the ball but marred by an abdominal injury. Despite the setbacks, he made his T20I debut in a series against Bangladesh after months of rehabilitation at the NCA, only to suffer a back injury that kept him out for over three months.
Information
Mayank's stats in T20s
Mayank played 4 matches for LSG in the IPL 2024 season, claiming 7 wickets at an outstanding 12.14. His economy rate was 6.98. Overall in T20s, he has 23 wickets from 17 matches at 15.43. Meanwhile, 4 of his wickets have come for India in T20Is at 20.75.