Ever since he set the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season on fire with his pace and accuracy, Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) fast bowler Mayank Yadav has been touted to make his India debut sooner than later. But he suffered a side strain in LSG's match against Gujarat Titans and has since been recuperating, and there is still a doubt if he will be available for Lucknow's home game against Chennai Super Kings on Friday.
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At 156.7 kmph, Mayank's thunderbolt remains one of the fastest delivery bowled in this IPL edition. He has taken six wickets in three matches.
LSG are keen to have him back in the playing eleven, but whether it happens in the match against CSK remains a question that LSG's assistant coach Lance Klusener has no clear answer to.
"I am not sure regarding his participation in tomorrow's (Friday) match against Chennai. He has been bowling in the nets but his fitness is our priority. But can't say anything regarding his participation,” Klusener said.
This was after LSG shared an encouraging update about Mayank's recovery with a video of him bowling in the nets. The franchise captioned the post: "Phir se udd chala."
With announcement of India's T20 World Cup squad likely towards the end of April, Mayank has been talked about as one who may find a place in the 15-member party.
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"He is definitely in the conversation," said former Australia allrounder Tom Moody. "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."
