Blow for LSG: Mayank Yadav Exits Ahead of IPL Restart

Mayank Yadav, fast bowler for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has been ruled out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2025 season due to a back injury.

The pacer had recently made a comeback on April 27, 2025, but featured in only two matches before being sidelined again. He faced the Mumbai Indians in his first match and the Punjab Kings in the subsequent match, claiming two wickets for just 40 runs in the first game and conceding 60 runs in four overs in the second.

His bowling speed decreased significantly to 130 km/h, a notable drop compared to his previous performances (150 km/h), likely due to his injury concerns.

LSG has named 22-year-old Will O'Rourke as Mayank Yadav's replacement. He will step in to strengthen their fast-bowling unit. The New Zealand pacer joins the franchise at a reserve price of $360,000. This move marks O’Rourke’s maiden appearance in the Indian Premier League.

He made his T20I debut for New Zealand in 2024 against Pakistan. Since then, he has represented his country across all three formats, delivering impressive performances, including a five-wicket haul on his Test debut against South Africa in February 2024.

After a one-week break, the IPL will resume on May 17, 2025, with the final scheduled for June 3, 2025. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will encounter Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. 

However, on May 19, Lucknow Super Giants will have their first match after the break against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.