Mayank Yadav opens up on sensational IPL debut, says 'I didn’t think it would go this well'
IPL: Mayank Yadav on LSG debut, says 'I didn’t think it would go this well'
Indian cricket seems to have unearthed a new pace bowling sensation in Mayank Yadav – a 21-year-old seamer from Delhi who made headlines for clocking over 150 kph during his IPL 2024 debut on Saturday (March 30). Playing for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Mayank broke Punjab Kings’ back with a stunning spell of three for 27, restricting them within the target and helping LSG register their first win this season.
LSG's new captain for the Punjab game, Nicholas Pooran, introduced Mayank into the attack after the Powerplay, and the lanky seamer hogged all the attention with his first delivery, searing over 147 kph, with his 155.8 kph being the quickest this season.
Bought at his base price of INR 20 lakh at the IPL 2022 auction, Mayank remained on the sidelines last year due to injuries. However, upon getting a chance this season, he made headlines worldwide with his whirlwind spell.
Speaking after winning the Player of the Match award, Mayank said he waited for this moment for a long time, adding he didn’t think it would go this well.
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"I didn't really think it [my debut] would go that well. I have heard from the others that there can be nervousness on debut. But after the first ball, all my nervousness went away," Mayank said at the post-match presentation. "Everyone said to not take too much pressure, just bowl on the stumps, and use the pace. That's what I did,” the seamer added.
Detailing on bowling bouncers upfront, Mayank said he thought of deceiving batters with some odd slower ones; it was only after receiving Pooran's advice of going all out with his pace that Mayank terrorised batters with his stock delivery.
"I thought I might need to use the slower ball, but there was help from the wicket, the captain [Nicholas Pooran] said to just go with the pace," Mayank revealed. "The debut wicket was my favourite."
Social-Media goes crazy overMayank
Several former cricketers have gone bonkers over Mayank’s pace and his clean action, labelling him as the next-generation superstar.
From Kevin Pietersen to Dale Steyn, former cricketers seemed impressed with Mayank’s exploits.
Check out some of the posts on X.
LSG will take on the RCB in an away clash on April 2.
