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Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) young speedster Mayank Yadav has taken the Indian Premier League (IPL) by storm with his incredible pace. The 21-year-old from Delhi has delivered the fastest ball this season, clocking at 156.7 kmph. Several cricket experts are already backing him for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2024. However, former India cricketer and selector Devang Gandhi believes that Mayank has not yet met all the criteria necessary for selection to the Indian team.
A sensational start for Mayank Yadav in IPL
Mayank Yadav became the first player in IPL history to be awarded the Player of the Match in his first two games. In his debut match against the Punjab Kings (PBKS), Mayank claimed three wickets while conceding only 27 runs. In the following match against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), he took another three wickets, this time giving away just 14 runs.
Unfortunately, the right-arm pacer was unable to play the franchise's last match against the Delhi Capitals (DC) due to a side strain, and the LSG management has decided not to risk his fitness.
Devang Gandhi, who also serves as the head coach for Delhi's Ranji team, noted that Mayank is a special talent. He commented on the risks associated with fast bowling, stating that injuries are inevitable when a bowler delivers at such high speeds and that Mayank must manage this aspect of his career carefully. Gandhi emphasized that Mayank needs to participate in more matches this season to solidify his case for national team selection.
"He is a special talent. Somebody who clocks 155 kmph is definitely special. So obviously, with the impact that the body goes through, there will be injuries, but it is not that they can't be managed. There has to be a way of grooming him. He will have to play more matches and go through the rigours, and then it needs to be assessed as to how he is able to withstand that," Gandhi told Sports Now.
"But he has to tick all the boxes if he wants to play for India in the upcoming World Cup. He can be better accessed if he can play all 12 or 14 matches in the IPL. Selectors need to see a lot of parameters, and if he is able to tick most of those boxes, then he will merit a selection. Then again, the ball is in Mayank's court, and he has to prove himself," he added.
Mayank needs to 'refine' his technique
Despite Mayank's ability to surprise batters with his speed, the former India selector pointed out that he needs to further refine his bowling technique. As batters begin to understand and adapt to his pace, it will be crucial for Mayank to develop additional strategies to maintain his effectiveness.
"Selectors also need to check his temperament and how he bounces back after an off day. Consistency in fitness and temperament are the other aspects that selectors will look at. Initially, he had the surprise element working in his favour, but now batters and think tanks will try to work out how to face him. So, how he manages to overcome that hurdle will be key. So Yadav has to tick two more boxes," Gandhi opined.
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