In preparation for the IPL 2025 mega auctions, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) retained several crucial players, including the promising Indian pacer Mayank Yadav for Rs 11 crore. Despite concerns over his fitness, the 22-year-old’s impressive debut season in the IPL 2024 secured his spot on the team, showcasing LSG’s confidence in his potential.
Mayank Yadav made waves during his debut in the IPL 2024 by playing four matches and claiming seven wickets. His express pace, consistently clocking around 150 kmph, earned him widespread recognition and excitement among fans and cricket analysts alike. This promising performance also led to his selection for three T20I matches for India, further establishing him as an up-and-coming talent.
While Mayank’s potential was undeniable, doubts lingered over his retention due to injury issues that kept him sidelined for periods following the IPL 2024. His fitness history raised questions about his ability to endure a full IPL season. However, these concerns did not deter LSG from investing in him for another season.
LSG co-owner Shashwat Goenka elaborated on their decision, emphasising Mayank’s contribution during his limited appearances.
During an interview, Shashwat Goenka stated that the question is whether a player is able to contribute in the team’s win while playing for the team and the answer is affirmative in regard to Mayank Yadav. Goenka added that Mayank played four games in the IPL 2024 and took seven wickets which clearly showed the potential of the youngster.
Shashwat Goenka further compared Mayank with other players as he said that even other players with similar backgrounds were also injury prone when they started their careers and they also had to work on their fitness. This perspective underscored LSG’s long-term investment in Mayank’s growth and future contributions.
Other Key Retentions by LSG
In addition to Mayank Yadav, LSG retained several notable players:
Nicholas Pooran: The West Indies wicketkeeper-batter, retained for Rs 21 crore, remains one of LSG’s biggest assets after strong performances in recent seasons.
Ravi Bishnoi: The talented Indian spinner was also kept for Rs 11 crore, underscoring his value in LSG’s bowling attack.
Ayush Badoni and Mohsin Khan: Both uncapped players were retained for Rs 4 crore each, reinforcing LSG’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Lucknow Super Giants’ decision to retain Mayank Yadav, despite his fitness challenges, signals the franchise’s trust in his talent and potential. With a roster that includes both experienced and emerging players, LSG aims to build a balanced and formidable squad for the IPL 2025.
