By Robert 
In a big boost to the Lucknow Super Giants, pace sensation Mayank Yadav has rejoined the squad ahead of their upcoming matches in IPL 2025. The 22-year-old fast bowler had been sidelined since October 2024 due to a back injury and later suffered a toe injury during his recovery.
Mayank, who impressed with his fiery pace during IPL 2024 and earned a maiden India call-up last year, has now linked up with the LSG camp. His return was confirmed by the franchise in a social media post showing him arriving at the team hotel, captioned, “Mayank Yadav is back” with thunderbolt emojis.
Though the franchise has not officially confirmed his availability, reports suggest Mayank could feature in LSG’s upcoming clash against Rajasthan Royals on Saturday, April 19.
Mayank had been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy (NCA) and was last seen in action during India’s T20I series against Bangladesh. Lucknow head coach Justin Langer had hinted at his return earlier this month, saying the pacer was bowling at “90–95%” and was nearly match-fit.
“Mayank’s up and running, which is great for Indian cricket and the IPL,” Langer had said after LSG’s win over Mumbai Indians on April 4. “We saw the impact he had last year—there hasn’t been an Indian bowler who’s bowled quicker.”
The Super Giants are currently fifth on the points table, with four wins from seven games. They recently suffered a setback against Chennai Super Kings, who chased down 167 to claim victory.
Mayank’s return adds firepower to an LSG bowling unit that is slowly getting back to full strength. Earlier injuries had sidelined key bowlers Avesh Khan, Akash Deep, and Mohsin Khan—who was later ruled out of the entire season. Shardul Thakur replaced Mohsin, while Avesh and Akash have made successful comebacks in recent matches.
With Mayank likely to be back in action soon, LSG will be hoping his raw pace can make a difference in the crucial second half of the season.