Young fast bowler Mayank Yadav has been a revelation for Lucknow Supergiants in the ongoing IPL 2024 as he played a brilliant match-winning performance on his debut. Mayank bowled the fastest delivery in the tournament this year at a speed of 156.7 kmph and went on to lead his team to a wicket-less victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore. However, a side strain he picked up against the Gujarat Titans took a big toll on the youngster and he has been out of action since then. Ahead of LSG’s match against Chennai Super Kings, LSG assistant coach Lance Klusener gave an update on Mayank’s fitness and when he could return.

“I’m not sure if he will be available for tomorrow’s match against Chennai. He has been bowling in the nets but his fitness is our priority. But cannot make any comment on his participation,” Klusena said.

Earlier, LSG posted a video on X (formerly known as Twitter) showing Mayank Yadav bowling in the nets ahead of their fiery clash against Chennai Super Kings.

“Then went to udd,” the title said.

Meanwhile, former Australian cricketer Tom Moody has backed Mayank Yadav for a spot in the Indian team for the 2024 T20 World Cup.

“He is definitely in the conversation. Whether you take the risk of betting on him or not is another matter because you also need to consider what kind of skills a back-up fast bowler needs – is it a power bowler, or is it a capable bowler? Man of ability. “The ability to bowl the death ball, all those subtle skill sets are important when you talk about the T20 World Cup,” Moody said.

Former New Zealand pacer Mitchell McClenaghan echoed similar sentiments.

“If his form continues throughout the tournament, then the World Cup starts six days after the IPL and I think it would be crazy not to focus on players who are in good form for that tournament,” McClenaghan said.

“He may not have played for the national team but if he continues like this and is able to keep pace throughout the game and continue to win games – he has won two games in a row, these are his first two games – Then you’re right in the mix, but you can’t say never,” he added.