ANI REPORT
IPL 2025: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) head coach Justin Langer has confirmed that Mayank Yadav, the tearaway pacer, is making significant progress in his recovery. After a period of absence due to a lumbar stress injury, Mayank is now bowling at about 90 to 95 percent of his full capacity at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (formerly known as the NCA) in Bengaluru.
Langer’s update serves as a major boost for LSG, whose pace attack has been one of the team’s key challenges in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Mayank’s return is eagerly awaited as it could provide crucial support to a depleted bowling lineup, helping them compete more effectively in the tournament.
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A Vital Recovery for LSG’s Bowling Unit
Mayank’s injury has been a significant setback for LSG, as the team has had to rely on a reduced pace attack. His injury initially occurred during India’s T20I series against Bangladesh in October last year, and since then, he has been working hard on his rehabilitation.
In a recent press conference, Langer shared his thoughts on Mayank’s recovery. He emphasized how much work has been done at the NCA to bring Mayank back to full fitness. Langer noted:
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“I saw some video of him bowling yesterday (Thursday), and he was bowling at about 90 to 95 percent. It’s really great for Indian cricket, for IPL, and especially for us. We saw the impact he had last year, and I don’t think there’s been a bowler in India who’s bowled faster than Mayank Yadav.”
Langer expressed his optimism about Mayank’s potential return, acknowledging the efforts of the NCA in getting key players like Mayank, Avesh Khan, and Akash Deep back on the field.
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LSG’s Depleted Pace Attack
At the start of IPL 2025, LSG’s pace attack was one of their biggest concerns. With several key bowlers sidelined due to injuries, including Mohsin Khan, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, and Akash Deep, the team had to find new ways to compete.
To fill the gap, LSG brought in Shardul Thakur, who went unsold in the mega auction, as a replacement for Mohsin. Shardul has since proven to be a valuable addition, playing a crucial role in the team’s victories. He has claimed seven wickets in four matches, with his effective and threatening lengths being key to his success.
In their recent encounter with Mumbai Indians (MI), LSG was pushed to the limit in a nail-biting match, but Shardul’s impressive bowling, particularly his performance in the penultimate over, helped secure a 12-run win. Shardul conceded just seven runs in that over, leaving MI with an uphill task in the final two overs.
Key Contributors to LSG’s Bowling Lineup
Though LSG’s pace attack was initially struggling, the return of Avesh Khan and Akash Deep has been a relief. Avesh has featured in three matches but has been somewhat expensive, picking up two wickets. On the other hand, Akash made an impressive return against MI, bowling consistently at over 140 kph and claiming 1/46 in his spell.
With Mayank Yadav’s return on the horizon, LSG’s pace attack is expected to become even more formidable. The combination of Shardul, Avesh, Akash, and potentially Mayank could make LSG a more balanced and threatening side as they look to climb the points table in IPL 2025.
Mayank’s Impact on LSG’s IPL 2025 Campaign
Mayank Yadav’s return will provide a much-needed boost to LSG’s pace attack, which has already begun to show signs of improvement. As one of the fastest bowlers in India, Mayank’s presence could add a new dimension to the team’s bowling strategy, giving them a competitive edge.
With IPL 2025 still in its early stages, the addition of a fit-again Mayank could help LSG improve their performance in the coming weeks. His express pace and ability to make breakthroughs in key moments will be critical as LSG looks to challenge the top teams in the league.
The news of Mayank Yadav’s recovery is a ray of hope for LSG as they look to strengthen their bowling attack in IPL 2025. With the return of key players and the continued performances of bowlers like Shardul, Avesh, and Akash, LSG’s pace unit looks poised for a major improvement. Mayank’s comeback will not only add firepower to their bowling but also lift the overall spirit of the team.
