Mayank Yadav: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have received a significant boost ahead of their crucial Indian Premier League 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with pace sensation Mayank Yadav declared fit and available for selection. The young fast bowler, known for his blistering speed, is expected to be in contention for LSG’s upcoming match against RCB at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
LSG team director Tom Moody confirmed that Mayank Yadav has successfully completed his rehabilitation process and is now ready to return to competitive action. The development comes as a major relief for the franchise, which has been dealing with injuries to several key bowlers during the ongoing season.
Mayank Yadav’s Return After Injury Layoff
Mayank Yadav, widely regarded as one of the fastest bowlers in the history of the Indian Premier League, has not played an IPL match since May 4, 2025. His absence was due to a long-term injury that required careful management and extensive rehabilitation. According to Moody, the franchise’s medical staff worked tirelessly over the past few months to ensure that Mayank and fellow pacer Mohsin Khan returned to full fitness without rushing the recovery process.
Speaking during a pre-match press conference ahead of the RCB encounter, Moody praised the efforts of the medical team and emphasized that both bowlers are now close to full match readiness.
He explained that the team had taken a cautious approach with Mayank Yadav, especially in the early stages of the tournament. At that time, the young speedster was still regaining his bowling rhythm and gradually increasing his workload to reach peak performance levels. With those concerns now resolved, Mayank is finally ready to rejoin the playing squad.
A Look Back at Mayank Yadav’s Last IPL Appearance
Mayank Yadav’s last outing in the IPL came against Punjab Kings in May 2025. In that match, the right-arm pacer conceded 60 runs, a performance that was well below the high standards he had set earlier in his career. Observers noted that he was not bowling at his usual pace, relying more on cutters while operating in the 135–140 kmph range.
That was a noticeable drop from the speeds that made him famous, as Mayank Yadav has previously been clocked delivering thunderbolts well above 150 kmph. However, Moody expressed confidence that the pacer has now regained both his rhythm and physical strength.
If selected against RCB, the return of Mayank Yadav could add a crucial edge to the Lucknow bowling attack, especially on a batting-friendly surface like the one in Bengaluru.
Mohsin Khan Also Nearing Full Match Fitness
Alongside Mayank Yadav, left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan is also close to making a full return. Moody revealed that Mohsin would undergo a final fitness assessment before the match to determine whether he is available for selection.
Unlike Mayank’s raw pace, Mohsin brings a different skill set to the bowling unit. Known for his ability to read batters and adapt to various match situations, the left-armer has already featured once in IPL 2026. In that game, he delivered an economical spell, conceding only 19 runs from his four overs.
Mohammed Shami Leading the Attack
While the team waited for Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan to recover, veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami has carried the responsibility of leading LSG’s bowling attack this season.
Shami delivered a standout performance earlier in the tournament when he dismantled Sunrisers Hyderabad in a match on April 5. The experienced pacer has taken four wickets in four matches so far in IPL 2026.
Moody highlighted Shami’s importance to the squad, praising his experience, leadership, and ability to swing the new ball both ways. According to the LSG director, Shami has played a crucial role not only with the ball but also in guiding younger bowlers in the team.
Also Read: Virat Kohli Injury Update: RCB Shares Big Fitness News Ahead of IPL 2026 Clash Against LSG
Crucial Match for Lucknow Super Giants
Currently positioned seventh in the IPL standings, Lucknow Super Giants will be eager to climb up the table with a strong performance against RCB. The Bengaluru-based franchise currently sits in third place, making the upcoming encounter an important test for LSG.
With Mayank Yadav potentially returning to the lineup, Lucknow’s bowling attack could gain the extra firepower needed to challenge one of the tournament’s strongest teams. Fans will be eager to see whether the young speedster can rediscover his trademark pace and make an immediate impact in IPL 2026.
The clash between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, April 15, and promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams battle for valuable points in the league stage.
