Published: Nov 20, 2025, 04:32 PM (IST)
Edited: Nov 20, 2025, 04:32 PM (IST)
India’s fast-bowler Mayank Yadav, retained by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini auction, has talked about his recovery from injuries. Due to a recurring back injury, the 23-year-old retained for Rs 11 crore and played just two games last season, missed the entire 2024–25 domestic season. Despite speculation that LSG might release him, the franchise chose to keep him before next month’s auction.
Mayank says he is ready to return after undergoing a successful operation in New Zealand earlier this year.
“My recovery is going pretty well. I have started bowling and everything is on track right now,” the youngster said.
“I have worked a lot on my fitness. In the upcoming season, I’ll be available for the team from day one and hope to contribute to the team’s cause, right from the word go,” he added.
Although he missed the entire IPL 2025 season, Mayank thanked LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka and the team management for backing him.
“Absolutely. It is a huge thing for me and I am thankful that despite all the setbacks due to injuries in the past 2-3 seasons, LSG is still backing me. The team, the owner, has been with me always, both on and off the field,” he revealed.
“In fact, the owner, Dr Sanjiv Goenka, gave me confidence that he’s there whenever I need it or whatever I need in my life,” Yadav continued.
Mayank also said he is excited to share fast-bowling responsibilities with veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, whom LSG acquired from SRH before the retention deadline.
“Shami Bhai was with me in rehab at the National Cricket Academy. I have known him for the last one and a half years. It will be very exciting for me to share ends with him,” Yadav said.
Bowling at 156.7 kmph against RCB in Bengaluru, Mayank holds the record for the fastest delivery of IPL 2024.
