Harare: India fast bowler Mayank Yadav has spoken candidly about the emotional and physical challenges of battling multiple injuries over the past two years, saying the difficult phase tested him at a young age but strengthened his determination to return and perform for the national team.
Mayank announced his comeback in style with a match winning performance against Zimbabwe in the T20I in Harare on Thursday. The 24 year old was named Player of the Match after producing an impressive spell of 2 for 18 in four overs, reassuring fans that he had retained both his pace and intensity after a lengthy absence from international cricket.
The right arm pacer first grabbed attention during his IPL debut in 2024, where his express pace consistently crossed the 150 kmph mark. His hostile bowling earned him back to back Player of the Match awards as he dismissed several top batters, quickly establishing himself as one of India’s most exciting fast bowling prospects.
However, his breakthrough campaign was interrupted by injuries that sidelined him for extended periods. Despite making his India debut during that time, recurring fitness setbacks limited him to just 10 appearances across three IPL seasons, slowing his rise at the highest level.
Looking back on that difficult period, Mayank admitted it was mentally demanding to spend so much time away from the game while still in the early stages of his career.
He said the two year gap was extremely challenging, especially as he was only 22 or 23 years old when the injuries began to take a toll. Despite the setbacks, he remained focused on his childhood dream of playing for India, using that ambition as the motivation to work hard and make a successful return.
His performance against Zimbabwe now marks an encouraging new chapter, with the young speedster aiming to remain fit and establish himself as a regular member of India’s pace attack.
