Mayank Yadav was one of the biggest talking points heading into IPL 2026, and for good reason. The Lucknow Super Giants pacer burst onto the scene with raw pace, winning Player of the Match awards in his first two games and quickly becoming one of the most exciting young fast bowlers in the competition. His early performances even sparked calls for a rapid India call-up, thanks to the kind of speed that can change games in a few overs.

But the last two years have not been easy for the tearaway quick. Injuries have interrupted his progress and forced him to miss a significant number of matches, leaving fans eager to see him back at full fitness. So when he returned to the LSG squad looking fit and sharp, many expected him to be among the first names in the XI for the clash against Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Stadium.

That did not happen, and Mayank was not even named among the impact substitutes. In the end, his absence was felt as Lucknow went on to lose by six wickets.

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After the match, LSG batter Mukul Choudhary clarified that Mayank is fully fit, with the call on his selection resting entirely with the captain and team management. “He is fit. The rest is team management and the captain and how they are planning to use him,” he said.

Mayank last featured for LSG in IPL 2025, and his return remains one of the key storylines for the franchise this season.

MukulChoudhary , who has been tasked with finishing games for LSG this year, also spoke about the backing he has received from captain Rishabh Pant. He said Pant has repeatedly asked him to trust his natural game, keep the pressure out, and play with freedom. “He said don’t take too much pressure, we will back you fully. Play your natural game,” Mukul revealed.

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LSG will now look to bounce back quickly when they face Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 5 in Hyderabad, with Mayank Yadav’s possible inclusion likely to remain a major selection talking point.