Mayank Yadav’s return to international cricket could not have gone better, and the former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes the young fast bowler deserves patience after overcoming a difficult spell with injuries. Playing his first international match since October 2024, Mayank announced his comeback in style during the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The speedster was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning spell that began with a wicket off the first ball of the contest. Mayank removed Brian Bennett for a duck with a hard delivery that straightened after pitching, forcing an outside edge that was safely caught behind the stumps. He continued to test Zimbabwe’s batsmen with his pace and discipline, dismissing Dion Myers during the powerplay to leave the hosts under immediate pressure. His spell set the stage for India’s commanding bowling display. The performance marked a significant moment in the pacer’s career after a spell of injuries stunted his rapid rise. Initially rushed into the Indian side as part of the team’s long-term plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Mayank has spent the last two years battling recurring fitness issues that have repeatedly interrupted his progress. Talking about ‘Ash ki Baat’, Ashwin reflected on the challenges of returning from multiple injuries and urged fans to avoid judging players too quickly. “It is not easy to go through a stress fracture at a young age. We often see and think, why is he still held back? He is always injured. We say this easily. No player plays to be injured. The injury can be very painful. It is not only physical, but also a mental barrier, especially if he is injured twice. It is not easy for the body. If it resurfaces, play on your mind. Mayank Yadav has a lot of time and is exceptionally talented. I want him to play more,” he said in “Ash ki Baat”. Ashwin also acknowledged India’s convincing start to the series and congratulated the new T20I captain. Shreyas Iyer to secure his first win as skipper. “Congratulations to Shreyas for the first win. You would have looked for it. There is not much to see when you restrict Zimbabwe to 120-odd. Mayank, Prince, and Ashok all had an opportunity,” he said. Mayank’s impressive return has not only revived India’s pace options, but also strengthened why he continues to be seen as one of the country’s most exciting fast bowling prospects when fully fit.
