The Lucknow Super Giants have decided to retain India’s rising fast-bowling star Mayank Yadav even as the franchise is getting set to move on from legspinner Ravi Bishnoi, South Africa’s David Miller and Indian pacer Akash Deep.
Mayank, who underwent back surgery following the 2025 IPL season, was perhaps the most intriguing call as far as LSG’s retention and release process was concerned. Still dealing with uncertain fitness, the young pacer has been retained by the franchise.
High-Value Retention Backed by Promise
Before the auction in 2025, LSG had signed Mayank Yadav at INR 11 crore because of his previously rare ability to bowl consistent pace at speeds of around 150 kmph.
Had he shown some really impressive performances in IPL 2024, including 2 Player-of-the-Match awards, and would have cemented himself as the most exciting future pace bowler from India. However, his 2025 season was curtailed after just two games because of a back injury that eventually needed surgery.
Recovery Progress and Expectations
The Delhi fast bowler is going through rehabilitation at the moment and is expected to start bowling soon. According to those close to the team, he should be operating at around 85% intensity come February, with full fitness targeted at the start of the next IPL season.
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LSG Think Tank United in Their Decision
Mayank’s lack of game time was significant for LSG. Still, the potential was something the franchise leadership group – director of cricket Tom Moody, head coach Justin Langer, and head of talent and former India bowling coach Bharat Arun felt warranted retention.
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