21-year-old Mayank Yadav stole the spotlight in his IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) against Punjab Kings (PBKS), delivering a mesmerizing display of pace bowling. Clocking a blistering 155.8 kph, Mayank’s raw speed left fans and experts marveling at his talent.
On his debut, Mayank Yadav scalped three crucial wickets – those of Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, and Jitesh Sharma – with an impressive spell that earned him figures of 3/27. His fiery performance played a pivotal role in restricting Punjab’s chase to fall short by 21 runs, ultimately leading to LSG’s victory. Recognizing his outstanding contribution, Mayank was rightfully awarded the Player of the Match title.
Renowned cricket commentator Sanjay Manjrekar couldn’t contain his excitement, likening Mayank’s pace to that of the legendary Rawalpindi Express, Shoaib Akhtar. In a statement to Star Sports, Manjrekar expressed his admiration, stating, “India will be buzzing today. We have found the Delhi Express after the Rawalpindi Express from Pakistan. Yeah, wonderful.”
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While acknowledging Mayank’s exceptional speed, Manjrekar also cautioned that such extreme pace might not be sustainable over the long term. He emphasized the need for the Indian team management to capitalize on Mayank’s current prowess by integrating him into the national team promptly.
“This kind of pace doesn’t stay with you for 7-8 years. When you have a pace, use it like Pakistan did in the past. Waqar Younis, for instance. You sometimes have to fast-track fast bowlers,” Sanjay Manjrekar remarked.
Mayank’s stellar performance, coupled with Mohsin Khan’s contribution of 2/34, formed a formidable bowling duo for Lucknow, effectively defending their target of 200 runs against Punjab. Their combined pace and precision put Punjab’s batting lineup under immense pressure, despite a promising start by the visiting team’s top order.
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With their first victory secured after an initial loss to Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants have climbed to the fifth position on the points table. Their next challenge awaits as they travel to Bengaluru to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 2nd.
