In a significant setback, pace bowler Mayank Yadav will be out of action for at least three months due to a recurring back injury, as confirmed by recent reports. Initially diagnosed as a side strain, further assessments have confirmed that his back injury, potentially a stress fracture, will keep him from returning to the field for the foreseeable future. This development impacts his chances of representing India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia as a reserve pacer and sidelines his participation in the Ranji Trophy’s upcoming rounds.
Injury and Rehabilitation Timeline
The BCCI had hoped for Mayank’s return to domestic cricket in the Ranji Trophy’s fourth or fifth rounds, aiming to prepare him for India’s series against South Africa. However, this rehabilitation plan has been scrapped due to his injury’s persistence. A BCCI official explained, “There appears to be some problem with his back… It could also be a case of stress fracture.”
In a promising debut, Mayank impressed in the T20I series against Bangladesh, where he claimed six wickets in three games. His potential as a rising star in India’s fast-bowling unit is undeniable. Now, however, Mayank’s immediate plans with the team have been put on hold, with the BCCI focusing on his return for the three-match ODI series against England in February.
Coach and Management Comments
Mayank’s personal coach, Devendra Sharma, confirmed that although this isn’t a new injury, the BCCI wants to ensure his complete recovery before a high-stakes comeback. “It’s not that Mayank has sustained a fresh injury, but he has been advised not to play now as they’re looking to have him back for the England ODIs,” Sharma shared.
This injury is undoubtedly a blow for Mayank, who was on track to strengthen India’s pace attack, but team management is prioritizing his long-term fitness to secure his impactful return for key international series ahead.