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Bengaluru: Mayank Yadavthe express pacer who clocked 156.7 kmph and took IPL by storm last season, is finally nearing a return, with Lucknow Super Giants clarifying the reasons behind his absence in IPL 2026.

Not injured, just not match-ready

Putting an end to speculation, LSG’s Global Director of Cricket Tom Moody revealed that Mayank’s absence was not due to injurybut rather a lack of match readiness.

Despite being physically fit, the young pacer needed time to:

• Build bowling workload
• Regain match rhythm
• Feel fully confident at competitive intensity

Injury-hit journey

Mayank’s rise has been exciting but interrupted:

• Burst onto the scene in IPL 2025 with extreme pace
• Played only two matches before injury setback
• Last appearance: May 4 vs Punjab Kings
• Spent months in rehabilitation and recovery

His raw pace and wicket-taking ability made him one of the most talked-about young fast bowlers in the league.

“Now ready, but selection headache”

Moody confirmed that Mayank is now ready for selectionbut his return isn’t straightforward.

However, there’s a twist:

• LSG’s bowling unit has performed well
• The team’s main issue has been batting, not bowling
• Bringing Mayank in could disrupt a settled attack

This creates a selection dilemma for the team management.

Spotted in nets before RCB clash

According to reports, Mayank was seen:

• Doing spot bowling
• Training at M Chinnaswamy Stadium
• Preparing ahead of clash with Royal Challengers Bengaluru

This strongly संकेत that his comeback could be imminent.

LSG’s current position

Lucknow’s campaign so far:

• Position: 7th on points table
• Strength: Consistent bowling attack
• Weakness: Inconsistent batting output

The team will be aiming to improve their standings with a strong performance against RCB.

What next for Mayank?

All signs suggest that:

• He is fully fit and match-ready
• A return could happen very soon
• Team balance will decide when he gets picked

If included, Mayank Yadav’s pace could add a new dimension to LSG’s attack — and potentially reignite the excitement he created with his 150+ kmph spells.