‘LSG is still backing me’ - Mayank Yadav reflects on support from franchise ahead of IPL 2026

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long been a platform for unearthing exceptional talent, and Mayank Yadav is among its latest standout discoveries. After making his debut for the Lucknow Super Giants

(LSG) in IPL 2024, the young pacer quickly captured attention across Indian cricket, showcasing the qualities of an up-and-coming pace sensation for the Men in Blue.

Although his debut season was spectacular, a series of injuries halted his progress and kept him away from competitive action. Now, with LSG opting to retain him, Mayank has expressed gratitude toward the franchise for continuing to back him despite the setbacks. Ahead of IPL 2026, the management’s show of faith has deeply resonated with him, and he has conveyed sincere appreciation for the team’s unwavering support and belief in his potential.

“It’s a huge thing for me, and I am thankful that despite all the setbacks due to injuries in the past 2-3 seasons, LSG is still backing me. The team, the owner, has been with me always, both on and off the field. In fact, the owner, Dr Sanjiv Goenka, gave me confidence that he’s there whenever I need it or whatever I need in my life,” said Mayank to Times of India.

The trading window for IPL 2026 has already produced several surprising moves, with Mohammed Shami’s transfer to the LSG standing out as one of the most unexpected. While the cricketing world was taken aback by the development, Shami’s arrival has significantly strengthened LSG’s bowling unit. When Mayank was asked about the trade, he said he was excited about the opportunity and thrilled to share the dressing room with such an experienced and highly regarded pacer.

“Shami Bhai was with me in rehab at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. I have known him for the last one and a half years. It will be very exciting for me to share ends with him,” said Mayank.

With injuries having disrupted his IPL journey since his debut, the upcoming season will be a pivotal chapter in Mayank’s career. As he prepares for the new edition, his primary focus is on staying fit, remaining on the field, and delivering meaningful contributions to the team.

“I have just one goal, that is to play more and more games because that is the only thing I’m missing from the last two years. The only goal I want to achieve this year is to play and contribute to my team,” the speedster concluded.