Kamal Ghorui
Lucknow Super Giants are set to take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in what promises to be a high-octane IPL clash, with a potential major boost in the form of pace sensation Mayank Yadav’s return.The young speedster, who has been sidelined due to injury, is likely to be back in contention, and his comeback could add serious firepower to LSG’s already impressive bowling attack. On the eve of LSG’s match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mayank spent some time doing spot bowling at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, before having a long conversation with bowling coach B Arun as reported by ESPNcricinfo. The franchise’s Global Director of Cricket, Tom Moody, clarified that Mayank’s absence earlier in the season was not due to fitness concerns but a matter of match readiness.“Mayank is ready to go,” Moody said. “He didn’t come into our thinking early in the tournament because he was still a little underdone. Not from a fitness point of view, his fitness was good, but in terms of bowling loads and feeling comfortable. We feel he is now at that point. He has worked exceptionally hard.”While Mayank’s return is a positive, it also presents LSG with a selection dilemma. Their bowling unit has performed consistently so far, even though the team has struggled to put up competitive totals.“Our bowling has been pretty solid so far. We just haven’t produced the runs to support that,” Moody added.If Mayank is included in the playing XI, it could come at the expense of fellow pacer Avesh Khan, who is also returning from injury. Avesh had a preparatory stint with Durban Super Giants in SA20 to build up his workload ahead of the IPL season. Though he has been slightly expensive, conceding runs at over 10 per over, his experience remains a valuable asset for the team.Moody also confirmed that LSG’s pace battery is close to full strength, with Mohsin Khan nearing a return as well.“The likes of Mayank, Mohsin and Avesh have all had long-term injuries. Our medical team has worked exceptionally hard to get them ready. They’re all available now. Mohsin will probably have a final test on match day,” he said.As LSG gear up to face an in-form RCB side at a batting-friendly venue, the possible return of Mayank Yadav could be a game-changer, adding pace, excitement, and a fresh edge to their campaign.
