IPL 2025: LSG Pacer Mayank Yadav’s Recovery Delayed by New Injury

IPL 2025: LSG Pacer Mayank Yadav’s Return Delayed Due to New Injury

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will begin their IPL 2025 campaign on Monday against Delhi Capitals in Visakhapatnam. But just before their first match, they’ve been hit with bad news fast bowler Mayank Yadav has suffered a new injury, delaying his return to the tournament. LSG has already been struggling with injuries to their key Indian pacers Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan, and Akash Deep.

Mohsin has been ruled out for the entire season, and on Sunday, LSG announced that all-rounder Shardul Thakur will take his place in the squad. Mayank had a dream start in IPL 2024, impressing everyone with his raw pace, regularly clocking over 150 kph, and winning the Player of the Match award in his first two games.

 But injuries have kept him away from cricket ever since. He was recovering from a back injury at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, and last week, reports suggested he could be back in the first half of April. However, on Sunday, LSG head coach Justin Langer shared that Mayank has suffered a fresh injury, pushing his return to the final week of the tournament.

"Mayank was making good progress with his back injury, but unfortunately, he stubbed his toe on the bed and got an infection. That has delayed his recovery by a week or two," Langer explained. "But he’s back on his feet. We keep getting videos of him bowling, and I saw one just yesterday. Hopefully, he’ll be ready for the final stretch of the tournament."

Updates on Other Injured Pacers

LSG’s fast bowling department has taken a big hit with injuries. While Mohsin Khan is out for the season, there’s hope for Avesh Khan and Akash Deep. "Avesh is close to making a return. He’s expected to clear his fitness test at the NCA tomorrow, and if all goes well, he’ll be back soon. Akash Deep is also recovering well he’s bowling at 90% intensity and has completed his yo-yo test, so he’s almost there," Langer added.

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LSG will kick off their season under their new captain Rishabh Pant, who was bought for a record ₹27 crore in last year’s mega auction. Interestingly, their first match is against Pant’s former team, Delhi Capitals.