Jobaaj Stories
Mayank Yadav: IPL 2025 Struggles and the Rush to Return
The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are facing a playoff crisis, and a significant contributor to their woes is the underperformance of their prized pacer, Mayank Yadav. After a meteoric rise in IPL 2024, where he clocked speeds exceeding 150 kmph, Yadav's return from injury in 2025 has been far from spectacular, raising questions about LSG's handling of his rehabilitation.
A Speed Demon's Slow Start
Mayank Yadav burst onto the scene in IPL 2024, captivating fans with his blistering pace. His fastest delivery, a remarkable 156.7 kmph, highlighted his immense potential. However, a side injury sidelined him, and his comeback in IPL 2025 has seen a significant drop in speed and effectiveness. While he initially showed promise with 2 wickets against Mumbai Indians, his recent 60-run concession against Punjab Kings exposed his vulnerabilities. This performance prompted criticism from former cricketer Ambati Rayudu, who suggested LSG might have rushed Yadav back into action before he was fully recovered.
LSG's Approach Under Scrutiny
Rayudu's concerns echo those of many, questioning LSG's management of Yadav's recovery. While LSG mentor Zaheer Khan insisted they took a cautious approach, working closely with the National Cricket Academy, Rayudu pointed to the example of Jofra Archer, whose return from injury took considerably longer. The contrast between Yadav's explosive 2024 and his subdued 2025 form highlights a potential mismatch between rehabilitation time and the pressures of competitive cricket.
The Punjab Kings Game: A Case Study
The match against Punjab Kings was particularly telling. Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer strategically promoted Josh Inglis to number three specifically to counter Yadav's short-pitched deliveries. Inglis responded with three consecutive sixes in Yadav's first over, showcasing Yadav’s current lack of control and pace. This tactical move by the Punjab Kings underscores the concerns regarding Yadav's current form. He has bowled 8 overs in IPL 2025 conceding a hefty 100 runs with only 2 wickets.
The Road Ahead
Mayank Yadav's future performance will be crucial for LSG's playoff hopes. Whether the team can help him regain his past form or whether this represents a significant setback remains to be seen. His story serves as a cautionary tale about balancing player recovery with the demands of a high-stakes tournament like the IPL.
