IPL 2025: LSG optimistic that Mayank Yadav will join squad around April 2nd week-OxBig News Network

Lucknow Super Giants are optimistic that pace sensation Mayank Yadav will join the squad around April 11 or 12 as he continues to step up his recovery from injury. Reports earlier in the month had stated that Mayank was still recovering from a lumbar stress injury. After making his debut for India in the T20I series against Bangladesh last year, the pacer underwent rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and recently started bowling once again.

It was reported that Mayank is expected to miss the first half of the IPL 2025 season and the latest update states that the 22-year-old will join the LSG squad on April 11 or 12. A source close to the situation told Sports Tak, India Today’s sister channel, that Mayank is doing well in the nets and is showing match readiness. The only thing that LSG are looking for is clearance from the Centre Of Excellence, which will allow the pacer to link up with the squad.

The source said that the franchise is hopeful that Mayank will be with the squad soon. If Mayank joins the LSG squad by April 11 or 12, it will mean that he will miss atleast the first 7 matches, including clashes against Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings.

Mayank’s issues with injury

Mayank came into the spotlight with his impressive performances in the IPL 2024 season, where he caught the eye of everyone during his first two matches. After picking up 3 wickets in his debut match against Punjab Kings, the 22-year-old followed it up with a Player Of The Match performance at the Chinnaswamy stadium against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. However, a side strain ended up limiting his appearances in the season.

Despite this, LSG decided to put their faith in the young speedster and retained him for 11 crore rupees. LSG mentor Zaheer Khan stated recently that the franchise wants Mayank to be ‘150 percent fit.’

“As much as we are keen on having him [play IPL 2025], we want him 150 per cent fit not just 100 per cent fit so we will do everything possible to get him there,” said Zaheer.

LSG will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against DC on March 24 in Vizag.