New Delhi, Apr 16: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) received a major boost as the fast bowler Mayank Yadav has joined the squad. The 22-year-old pacer is likely to be available for LSG's next game against Rajasthan Royals on Saturday.

LSG announced Mayank's return with a special video on their social media, accompanied by a caption, "Mayank Yadav is back".

Mayank has been sidelined with a back injury and was close to returning earlier this season before a freak toe injury — sustained after stubbing it against his bed — caused an infection that further delayed his comeback.

The young pacer, who was out of action since his international debut last year, where he featured in three T20Is against Bangladesh at home, missed the entire domestic season and underwent rehab at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

Earlier, LSG head coach Justin Langer sounded upbeat about Mayank’s recovery and said, “Mayank is up and running, which is really great for Indian cricket and for the IPL. I saw some video of him bowling yesterday at the NCA. He was bowling at about 90 to 95%."

Mayank took the IPL by storm last season with his raw pace and wicket-taking ability, consistently clocking speeds above 150 km/h. He had played only four games for LSG last season and was among their five retained players before the mega auction.

His return will be a massive boost for LSG, who have had to manage a severely depleted bowling lineup since the start of IPL 2025.

LSG’s injury crisis began before the season opener with Mohsin Khan, Mayank, Avesh Khan, and Akash Deep all unavailable. The franchise brought in veteran Shardul Thakur to bolster the attack, and the move has paid dividends. Avesh and Akash Deep later joined the squad and have since played five and three games, respectively.

LSG, whose bowling resources were stretched thin, managed to sit fifth in the standings with four wins in seven games. They will next play Rajasthan Royals on Saturday in Jaipur.

(IANS)

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