Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) fast bowler Mayank Yadav is expected to be sidelined for the first half of IPL 2025 as he recovers from a lumbar stress injury. ESPNcricinfo has learned that Mayank has recently resumed bowling at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where he has been undergoing rehabilitation since sustaining the injury after his India debut in the T20I series against Bangladesh last October.
While there is no confirmed timeline for his return, the BCCI has outlined a fitness-based progression plan. If he successfully meets all fitness parameters and increases his bowling workload, Mayank could be available for the latter half of the tournament.
A Significant Blow for LSG
Mayank’s absence is a setback for LSG, who had retained him for INR 11 crore ($1.31 million approx.) ahead of the mega auction. This marked a massive jump from his initial contract of INR 20 lakh in IPL 2024 when he was picked as an uncapped fast bowler.
His rapid rise in value was driven by his ability to consistently clock speeds above 150kph, which earned him back-to-back Player-of-the-Match awards in his first two IPL games. Recognizing his potential, India’s selectors included him in the pool of fast bowlers under special contracts.
Injury-Stricken Journey
Mayank’s IPL 2024 campaign was cut short after just four matches due to a lingering side strain. During his rehabilitation, he suffered a separate injury, delaying his return. He eventually recovered in time to play the Bangladesh T20I series but picked up another injury soon after, forcing him back into rehab.
Although the BCCI has not officially disclosed specifics, it is understood that Mayank is dealing with a stress-related injury in the lower left side of his back.
LSG and BCCI Working on Recovery Plan
In February, former India pacer Zaheer Khan, who now serves as LSG’s team director, emphasized that the franchise was closely coordinating with the BCCI’s medical team to manage Mayank’s return. However, Zaheer made it clear that the priority was his complete recovery.
“As much as we are keen on having him [play IPL 2025], we want him 150% fit, not just 100% fit, so we’ll do everything possible to get him there,” Zaheer had stated.
LSG’s Season Opener
LSG will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Delhi Capitals on March 24 in Visakhapatnam, under new captain Rishabh Pant. Whether Mayank will be able to make an impact later in the tournament remains to be seen.
