Mayank Yadav, the express pacer from Delhi, has been a revelation in the 2024 IPL season. Bursting onto the scene with deliveries clocking 155 clicks and back-to-back ‘Player of the Match’ awards at the start of the IPL, he quickly became a sensation. However, his season has been marred by injuries, casting a shadow over his participation for the rest of the season.
Mayank Yadav’s injury
Yadav’s IPL journey has been a roller-coaster ride. After his stellar performances in the initial matches, he suffered an injury that sidelined him for four weeks. He made a comeback against Mumbai Indians on Tuesday after passing fitness tests but was forced back into the dugout after bowling 3.1 overs. This recurrence of his early-season injury has raised doubts about his ability to participate in the remainder of the season.
Despite this setback, there is a silver lining for the 21-year-old Delhi man. He is all set to be given a pace bowling contract by the BCCI. This contract will place Yadav under the supervision of the National Cricket Academy’s (NCA) Sports Science and Medical team. They will take charge of his injury management and fitness program from his IPL franchise, Lucknow Super Giants.
The BCCI’s pace bowling contract is a significant development for Yadav. It not only recognizes his talent but also ensures that his growth will be systematically monitored. The contract will also put him alongside other talented pace bowlers like Umran Malik, Vidwath Kaverappa, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Yash Dayal, and Akash Deep.
Yadav’s injury is a grade 1 tear, and while it might be cutting it fine, there is a possibility that he might be able to play the knock-out games if LSG qualifies for the playoffs. However, this is like hoping against hope, and right now, he is doubtful for the remaining IPL games.
Had Yadav been fit all this while, there was a possibility of him being a left-field selection in the T20 World Cup. However, handling him with care is the primary job of the Indian cricket establishment. The national selection committee and the Indian team management would like to gradually blood him and ensure that he can maintain peak fitness.
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