Lucknow Super Giants' Mayank Yadav Clocks IPL 2024's Fastest Delivery Before Injury

Mayank Yadav, the 21-year-old pacer for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, has been making headlines with his impressive performances. Yadav clocked the fastest delivery of the tournament at 156.7 kmph and claimed consecutive three-wicket hauls against Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

However, Yadav suffered a side strain during a match against Gujarat Titans on April 7th and has been sidelined from the competition since then. LSG assistant coach Lance Klusener provided an update on Yadav's fitness, stating that he has been bowling in the nets, but his participation in the upcoming match against Chennai Super Kings is uncertain as the team's priority is his fitness.

Why this matters: Yadav's injury highlights the challenges faced by express fast bowlers in the demanding T20 format, as the intensity and speed they generate often lead to frequent injuries. His absence has directly contributed to LSG's back-to-back defeats against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders, underscoring his importance to the team.

Former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody has advised the selectors to groom Yadav for the 2026 World Cup instead of a knee-jerk reaction to include him in the T20 World Cup 2024 squad. "It is too early to judge his capabilities over a long period of time," Moody said, suggesting that Yadav should be considered for the 2026 World Cup instead.

LSG, currently positioned fifth in the IPL 2024 points table, are in dire need of a win against the fourth-placed Chennai Super Kings, who have won four out of their six matches so far. The uncertainty surrounding Yadav's return has added to the challenges faced by the Lucknow-based franchise as they aim to secure a playoff berth in the highly competitive league.

Key Takeaways

• Mayank Yadav, 21, clocked IPL's fastest delivery at 156.7 kmph but suffered side strain.
• LSG assistant coach says Yadav's fitness uncertain for upcoming CSK match, team's priority is his recovery.
• Yadav's injury highlights challenges for express pacers in T20s, contributing to LSG's back-to-back defeats.
• Tom Moody advises selectors to groom Yadav for 2026 World Cup, not rush him into 2024 squad.
• LSG, 5th in IPL 2024, need a win against 4th-placed CSK, but Yadav's absence adds to their challenges.