(PTI Photo)
A standout moment in IPL 2024 was the rise of young fast bowler Mayank Yadav, whose consistent delivery at 150 kph quickly captured attention. It wasn’t solely his impressive speed that made waves; his remarkable control despite the velocity also won over experts.
Although his appearances were brief—taking seven wickets in just four matches—Yadav made a significant impact while playing for the Lucknow Super Giants.
It has been almost four months since the Delhi pacer last played a competitive game. An abdominal injury cut his season short, and he seems to be still dealing with fitness issues, missing both the inaugural Delhi Premier League and the Duleep Trophy squads.
It appears the bowler is being managed cautiously due to his youth and past injury history. However, former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey has a different perspective. He believes that at Mayank’s age, more bowling experience will only help him improve.
“I don’t agree that if he (Mayank) is not ready, just don’t play him,” Mhambrey told The Indian Express. “This is the age where he has to bowl. A bowler should bowl. The more you bowl, the more you will have control, you will know your threshold as to how much your body can take. You can’t wrap him up in cotton wool saying he will get injured.”
Mhambrey, a former India fast bowler, advises the 22-year-old to “play first-class cricket” to gain a deeper insight into his own bowling. He believes that this experience will also benefit him greatly in the long run.
“When you play one season, you understand your bowling. You bowl in different conditions. Physically, you will be tested in different phases of the game. Sometimes, you will have to be on the ground for six sessions. And to be able to bowl with the same intensity in the last session will give you confidence when you play at the international level. I strongly feel Mayank needs to grind it out in the domestic season,” Mhambrey said.
Since making his competitive debut in December 2021, Mayank has participated in one first-class match, along with 17 List A games and 14 T20 matches.
Although he has demonstrated potential, Mhambrey believes the next step for the team management is to assess his background and develop a tailored fitness plan.
“He’s only 22. His body is still developing. He is in that injury-prone age-group. His body has not completely developed yet. His injuries can be controlled, if we understand his background well,” Mhambrey said.
