IPL 2024: Klusener is not sure about Mayank Yadav's comeback to LSG

Mayank Yadav’s future with LSG remains uncertain as the team awaits his return. The young pace sensation has been making headlines in the ongoing IPL 2024, notably delivering the fastest ball of the tournament at a staggering 156.7 kmph.

Despite his promising start, Yadav’s journey has hit a roadblock due to a side strain, causing him to miss the team’s recent matches. Assistant coach Lance Klusener expressed apprehension about Yadav’s fitness, emphasizing the team’s cautious approach towards his recovery.

Klusener opens up about Yadav’s fitness

While Yadav has shown progress in training, with videos surfacing of him bowling in the nets, Klusener refrained from confirming his immediate return to the playing XI.  “I am not sure regarding his participation in tomorrow’s match against Chennai. He has been bowling in the nets, but his fitness is our priority,” he added.

Amidst the uncertainty, former Australian cricketer Tom Moody believes Yadav could still be in contention for a spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad later in the year.

Moody said, “He is definitely in the conversation. Whether you take that risk punting on him or not is another conversation because you also need to consider what skillset you need in that reserve fast bowler – is it someone who is a powerplay bowler, or someone who has the ability to bowl at the death, all those subtle skillsets are important when you are talking about a T20 World Cup.”

Uncertainty looms over Yadav’s return

Mitchell McClenaghan, former New Zealand bowler, echoed similar sentiments regarding Mayank Yadav’s potential inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad. McClenaghan emphasized the significance of Yadav’s form in the IPL 2024, highlighting the proximity of the World Cup, which begins just six days after the IPL concludes. McClenaghan stressed the importance of considering players in top form for such major tournaments, regardless of their previous international experience.

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He acknowledged Yadav’s remarkable performance, winning two consecutive games for his team in the IPL, and suggested that if Yadav maintains his form and continues delivering match-winning performances, he could certainly be in contention for a spot in the national squad. While acknowledging that it might be a long shot, McClenaghan emphasized the unpredictability of cricket and the potential for emerging players to make a significant impact on the global stage.