New Delhi, India

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Indian cricket's newest sensation, Mayank Yadav, is set to receive a pace-bowling contract from the BCCI, per the latest report; however, the Delhi seamer might miss the remainder of IPL 2024 with a potential abdominal muscle tear, which he suffered during his return game against Mumbai Indians. It's his second injury since making a mind-blowing IPL debut earlier this season.

Per a source close to the information, Mayank has suffered a grade 1 tear, staying on the sidelines at least till the group games. However, the source claims if Mayank recovers from the injury and LSG qualify for the playoffs, he could return to the playing XI. 

"Mayank has a tear, but it is more likely a grade 1 tear. It will be cutting it fine but in case LSG qualifies for the playoffs, he might just be able to play the knock-out games. But it is like hoping against hope, and right now he is doubtful for the remaining IPL games," a BCCI source informed PTI on condition of anonymity.

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Meanwhile, making headlines for clocking over 150 Kmph regularly, with wicket-taking line and length, Mayank has been rewarded for his exploits, as BCCI seeks to handle his situation with utmost care. The Indian Cricket Board picked a few bowlers - Umran Malik, Vidwath Kaverappa, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Yash Dayal and Akash Deep, who would be handed the pace-bowling contract.

"He will soon be handed a pace bowling contract, and once he is in the BCCI Pathways structure, his growth will be systematically monitored.

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"The national selection committee and the Indian team management would like to gradually blood him and ensure that he can maintain peak fitness," the BCCI source added.

What is a pace-bowling contract?

Under this contract, Mayank, alongside all other names, will be placed under NCA's Sports Science and Medical team’s supervision, which will take care of his injury management and fitness programme.

Meanwhile, following his blockbuster IPL debut, wherein he won two back-to-back Player of the Match awards, Mayank suffered stiffness in his lower back during his third match (against GT), missing a few games for Lucknow later. Upon his return to the playing XI for the MI game at home, he walked away in discomfort after bowling 3.1 overs, picking one wicket and conceding 31 runs. 

However, the latest reports suggest that Mayank was considered for selection for the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA. But given his injury status, BCCI’s primary aim is to ensure he remains fit, as they wish to bring him into contention for his international debut.