NEW DELHI: Mayank Yadav, the 21-year-old pacer, unleashed his fiery pace and ignited the tournament with a match-winning spell of 3/27 in a blazing debut for Lucknow Super Giants against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League.
His scintillating performance not only earned acclaim from cricketing legends but also resonated with a sense of determination and passion that defined his journey to IPL stardom.
"Pace is a natural thing for me," Mayank shared, reflecting on his innate ability to bowl fast. "I never put stress on bowling fast, but rather on staying consistent and helping my team."
His words reflect a mindset honed through dedication and hard work, traits instilled in him since childhood.
Mayank's cricketing journey was shaped by his admiration for pace greats like Brett Lee and Dale Steyn, whose electrifying performances captivated his imagination from a young age.
"My father liked fast bowlers," he reminisced. "When I was a kid, he used to show me videos of Mitchell Johnson, Dale Steyn, and Morne Morkel."
These glimpses of bowling brilliance ignited Mayank's passion for fast bowling and laid the foundation for his aspirations in the sport.
"Since childhood, I have watched these people on TV," Mayank shared, reflecting on the impact of his cricketing idols. "To get appreciated by them is a big deal for me."
Indeed, accolades from cricketing legends like Brett Lee and Dale Steyn validate Mayank's talent and mark his arrival on the IPL stage with distinction.
"When I entered the ground, I felt that I belonged to this stage," Mayank revealed, exuding confidence and composure beyond his years. His seamless transition to the IPL arena, coupled with a fearless mindset, underscores his readiness to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
1/6:Top 5 Fastest balls in the history of IPL
PTI
2/6:5. Mayank Yadav
<p>In IPL 2024, uncapped Indian bowler Mayank Yadav made his debut and clocked a rapid 155.8 kmph delivery against Punjab Kings.<br /></p>AP
3/6:4. Anrich Nortje
<p>Anrich Nortje of Delhi Capitals unleashed a searing 156.22 kmph delivery in a match against the Rajasthan Royals, contributing to the team's journey to the final of the IPL 2020 championship.</p>AFP
4/6:3. Umran Malik
<p>Sunrisers Hyderabad's Umran Malik delivered a thunderous 157.0 kph ball in IPL 2022, striking a Delhi Capitals batter.</p>AFP
5/6:2. Lockie Ferguson
<p>In IPL 2022, Lockie Ferguson of Gujarat Titans bowled the quickest ball of the season, clocking 157.3 kmph during the championship game against the Rajasthan Royals, earning him the prize for the tournament's fastest delivery.<br /></p>Agencies
6/6:1. Shaun Tait
<p>The fastest ball ever bowled in an IPL match was by Shaun Tait. In 2011, playing for Rajasthan Royals against Delhi Capitals, Tait recorded a staggering speed of 157.71 kph.<br /></p>AgenciesJust like many modern-day pacers, Mayank draws inspiration from Indian superstar Jasprit Bumrah, citing him as his role model.
"I take a lot of inspiration from Jasprit Bumrah. He is one of the best in India and the world, would try to learn as much as possible from him," Mayank acknowledged, highlighting his admiration for the renowned bowler's skill and success.
(With inputs from ANI)
