Mayank Yadav took Indian cricket by storm in 2024, quickly earning recognition as one of the fastest bowlers in the country. However, his rapid rise was halted by injuries, limiting him to just six IPL matches across two seasons and three T20Is for India. A stress fracture in his back forced him out of action for an extended period, raising concerns about his long-term fitness and ability to sustain high speeds.
Surgery, Rehab and a Fresh Start
The 23-year-old underwent surgery last year and spent 8-9 months at the National Cricket Academy (CoE) focusing on rehabilitation and training. Reflecting on the journey to experts on a interview, Mayank admitted it was both physically and mentally demanding.
Mayank said,” I had a stress fracture in my back, which is why I was out for a long time. I am 100 percent ready right now; my injury is completely fine. I had surgery last year after the two matches I played in the IPL. It’s all fine. The physios and the trainers at the CoE did a brilliant job, and I’m able to bowl at 100 percent after the surgery. I was a bit concerned about how my bowling would be post surgery, but it’s back on track. Not just physically, but mentally as well. The work I’ve put in over the last 8-9 months during rehab has been significant. It takes a lot of effort, especially since this was my first major surgery, so it was a very different situation for me. There were a lot of restrictions at the start, but once things began to improve, I was able to do what I wanted. So, overall, it was quite good, I would say. Whatever happened, it turned out well.”
Mayank Yadav also opened up about his ability to bowl 150km/h plus bowling, He credited both natural ability and disciplined training for his pace: ”I’d say two things. First is the natural ability given by God, and second is the work I’ve put in behind that. At a very early stage, I realised I could bowl quick, so I respected that and worked around it.”
Focus on Fitness and Longevity
Having faced a major injury early in his career, Mayank is now prioritising recovery, diet, and workload management to avoid setbacks.
”So, the only thing I can do is focus on my recovery and diet. That’s what I’m concentrating on – my food, sleep and the recovery work I’ve been doing with the trainer over the past three years. That’s my main focus right now.” Mayank said.
LSG’s Trust and Support
Mayank credited the Lucknow Super Giants management for standing by him during his recovery phase. He specifically acknowledged team owner Sanjiv Goenka for his support: ”I think they have shown complete trust in me, whether I’m injured or playing. Especially the owner (Sanjiv Goenka) – he has helped me a lot. Even during rehab, he would message me to check how things were going, how my body was feeling. So, I think the franchise has played a huge role, and the amount of trust they’ve shown in me is remarkable.”
”I think I was playing for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Delhi and UP were practising together in Chandigarh, at the Mohali stadium. I think that’s where Vijay Dahiya saw me, and he passed my name on to the right people, and from there they discovered me.” he added.
At the end Mayank Yadav said that he wanted to be available for all IPL games, ” I just want to be available for all the games… and I want to win the trophy.” he concluded.
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