Mayank Yadav's IPL Comeback Raises Concerns Over Management Decisions

Mayank Yadav's unexpected return to IPL 2025 has sparked concerns regarding the management of his recovery by the BCCI and LSG. After a lengthy rehabilitation, he was hastily cleared to play, leading to a swift re-injury after just two matches. This situation has raised questions about the adequacy of his training sessions and the overall handling of his fitness. As the franchise loses confidence in his recovery, it appears unlikely that he will continue with LSG for the next season. Read on to explore the details of this unfolding situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 17, 2025, 11:30 IST

Unexpected Return to IPL 2025

Mayank Yadav's return to IPL 2025 was filled with surprises, primarily due to the mismanagement by both the BCCI and LSG. The young fast bowler had previously made headlines with his impressive 150 kmph deliveries but found himself sidelined after just two matches this season. Reports suggest that his comeback was hastily arranged.

After enduring months of rehabilitation, he was cleared to play with only a few days' notice, having completed 10-12 bowling sessions at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE). Ironically, most of these sessions involved bowling at a reduced pace, and it wasn't until the last week of March that he bowled at full intensity.

Despite these concerns, Mayank was included in the IPL 2025 roster. His return to the LSG squad generated excitement among fans eagerly awaiting his comeback in mid-April, but his inclusion in the playing XI was delayed.

Finally, on April 27, he made his return against the Mumbai Indians. Unfortunately, he was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament after just two appearances. This led to scrutiny directed at the BCCI CoE and LSG, particularly since fast bowling has been a significant weakness for LSG this season.

Sources indicate that the mishandling of Mayank's return by both the BCCI and LSG contributed to his re-injury. Dhananjay Kaushik, now leading the BCCI's sports science department, reportedly cleared Mayank after only a few sessions. Upon joining the LSG camp, he exhibited back swelling and required extensive taping to manage cramps.

A source commented:

“For a bowler who had such a long absence from the game, it's surprising that it took the CoE just 10-12 sessions to give him a green signal. One-third of those sessions were at a reduced intensity, and he started bowling at 80-85% only towards the end of March. You get a true picture only when you operate at full tilt and then take enough time to assess how the body is responding to the increased workload. That workload is gradually increased to observe and assess how the body is reacting to different levels of intensity. With Mayank, it looked like mere boxes were ticked.”

Concerns were also raised regarding his speed and bowling technique, which seemed to have changed significantly. He had lost at least 10 kmph in pace and was relying more on slower balls and cutters, clear indicators of his lack of fitness.

The LSG camp questioned Mayank about his reduced speed and his irregular bowling on non-match days. He explained that he was adhering to the rehabilitation routine and could not push himself further.

The source added:

“It is baffling why his action isn't addressed yet. His body continues to fall towards the side after landing, and that impact will continue to add stress to his back. It is like a car running at 150 kmph and taking a sudden left turn.”

The franchise grew frustrated with these discussions, leading to a loss of confidence in his recovery. Consequently, they decided to release him, making it unlikely that he will remain with the franchise for IPL 2026.