Mayank Yadav Might Get BCCI Pace Bowling Contract; IPL Continuation Doubtful

Mayank Yadav suffered a suspected abdominal tear during the IPL and is likely to miss the rest of the round-robin stage, but might be given a BCCI pace bowling contract.

Indian bowling prospect Mayank Yadav is likely to miss the remainder of the IPL’s round-robin stage due to a suspected abdominal muscle tear. This is his second injury setback in the past four weeks.

The 21-year-old from Delhi suffered the injury during the match against the Mumbai Indians. Despite the setback, the bowler had a bright spot. He is expected to receive a pace bowling contract from the BCCI alongside other promising young fast bowlers like Umran Malik, Vidwath Kaverappa, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Yash Dayal, and Akash Deep. 

This contract would bring Yadav under the supervision of the National Cricket Academy’s (NCA) Sports Science and Medical team. They will manage his rehabilitation and fitness programme, taking over from his IPL franchise, the Lucknow Super Giants.

A BCCI source, speaking anonymously, said, “Mayank has a tear, but it’s likely a grade 1 tear. It’ll be tight, but if LSG qualifies for the playoffs, he might just be able to play the knockout games. However, that’s unlikely, and right now he’s doubtful for the remaining IPL matches.”

Yadav had impressed everyone at the beginning of the IPL, clocking speeds of 155 and winning back-to-back ‘Player of the Match’ awards. However, unfortunately, he suffered an injury during the third match and was sidelined for four weeks.

He made a comeback against the Mumbai Indians after passing fitness tests but only bowled 3.1 overs before being forced to leave the field again, conceding 31 runs.

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The source added, “Had Mayank been fit throughout, there was a chance he could have been selected for the T20 World Cup. But right now, the priority for the Indian cricket board is to manage him carefully.”

“He will be given a pace bowling contract soon. Once he’s in the BCCI Pathways programme, his development will be closely monitored. The national selection committee and the Indian team management want to integrate him gradually and ensure he stays fit,” the source concluded.

Last Updated on May 1, 2024