IPL 2025: LSG pacer Mayank Yadav looks all set for a near full season | Exclusive

IPL 2025: First it was a lower-back stress reaction and then a toe infection which caused a delay in Mayank Yadav joining his IPL outfit -- the Lucknow Super Giants.

However, Mayank, with a few sessions of spot bowling at 50 to 60 per cent effort, is looking in great shape to make his comeback in T20 cricket, the Indian cricket board sources told MyKhel.

This means that Lucknow Super Giants don't have to look for a replacement for the Delhi fast bowler. Amidst fears of Mayank not able to pass the fitness test for the IPL season, LSG were looking at signing a fitter bowler from the unsold pool of players.

The 22-year-old pace, who was struggling with a lower back stress reaction, had to be operated on March 3 for his right big toe infection. However, there are good indications that he is on his way to full fitness.

Sources also revealed that Mayank had initiated spot bowling even on February 24 with 50% effort after recovering from his back injury but it was again the toe infection that delayed his IPL return. "He should be fit to fulfill his T20 commitments," the source added.

MyKhel earlier report that LSG initially had doubts about Mayank's availability and had considered bringing in a replacement, but those concerns have eased with his progress. The franchise is hopeful that he will be able to complete most of the IPL season without further setbacks.

Mayank's recovery process was not without its challenges. LSG wanted to oversee his rehabilitation to ensure he was match-ready under their medical staff's supervision. However, the National Cricket Academy (NCA) objected, citing his status as a BCCI-contracted cricketer. As a result, the NCA took full control of his rehab, ensuring that he met fitness benchmarks before rejoining LSG's squad.

Mayank Yadav is one of the fastest bowlers in Indian cricket, and his raw pace makes him a lethal asset in T20 cricket. He has already made an impression with a couple of match-winning spells in domestic and franchise cricket. His availability will significantly bolster LSG's bowling attack, allowing them to unleash his speed alongside their other pacers.

The challenge for Mayank and LSG will be managing his workload effectively. With his injury history, maintaining peak fitness throughout the tournament will be crucial. However, if he remains fit, he has the potential to be a standout performer in IPL 2025. All eyes will be on Mayank's return to competitive cricket, as LSG fans eagerly await the sight of their speedster charging in to bowl in the IPL once again.