Mayank Yadav’s Absence in LSG XI Against Delhi Capitals: Explained

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) face a challenging start to their IPL 2025 campaign against Delhi Capitals with several key players absent due to injuries. One of the notable omissions is fast bowler Mayank Yadav, who impressed as a pace sensation the previous season.
Mayank Yadav has been ruled out for a significant period due to a toe injury. Despite being retained by LSG for INR 11 crore before the auction, he will be on the sidelines until the business end of the tournament. His absence is a significant blow for LSG, which is already grappling with a lack of depth in its bowling attack.
The injury woes are compounded with Mohsin Khan ruled out for the entire season due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament. As a last-minute replacement, Shardul Thakur has been brought in to fill the void left by Khan. Additionally, Avesh Khan and Akash Deep are on the road to recovery and are expected to return after the team’s first three games.
To mitigate the impact of these injuries, LSG has included Prince Yadav, the top wicket-taker in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, in their squad for the match against Delhi Capitals. Furthermore, Digvesh Rathi has been selected to replace Avesh Khan in the playing XI.
Looking back, LSG had reached the playoffs in 2022 but finished seventh last year. Such injury setbacks could significantly impact their performance this season. For LSG, the successful integration of new players amid these challenges will be crucial if they are to replicate or surpass their earlier performances.
As LSG fans eagerly await the return of Mayank Yadav and other key players, the team management will hope that the new additions to the squad can rise to the occasion and start their IPL 2025 campaign on a positive note.