In a significant blow to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), fast bowlers Mayank Yadav and Deepak Chahar may be rendered unavailable for the remainder of Indian Premier League 2024. Mayank Yadav, who made headlines with his searing 156.6 kmph delivery earlier in the season, is grappling with a suspected abdominal muscle tear, suffered during a clash against Mumbai Indians. This injury marks his second physical setback in the last four weeks, dimming prospects for further participation in the tournament.
A report from Cricbuzz highlighted the plight of Lucknow’s pace prodigy, suggesting that his campaign might have prematurely reached its end. Although a previous report from PTI hinted that Yadav might return in time if LSG secures a spot in the playoffs, the latest updates paint a grimmer picture. A BCCI source, requesting anonymity, stated to PTI, “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 play-offs, 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.”
Yadav, who burst onto the IPL scene wielding deliveries breaching the 155 kmph mark and earning consecutive ‘Player of the Match’ titles, found his season derailed when he broke down in his third match, triggering a four-week shutdown. His attempt at staging a comeback was ill-fated; despite clearing fitness tests, he could only manage 3.1 overs against Mumbai Indians before discomfort forced him out of the encounter, having leaked 31 runs.
The scenario for CSK’s frontline pacer Deepak Chahar is equally disconcerting. Chahar, known for his lethal swing bowling, could barely deliver two balls against Punjab Kings when a hamstring pull compelled his early exit. Kasi Viswanathan, the CEO of Chennai Super Kings, conveyed a somber outlook on Chahar’s condition, expressing: “Deepak injury is not looking good. I will not say he is ruled out of the season but doubtful.”
Both Yadav and Chahar’s injuries come as substantial setbacks, not just for their respective franchises but also for the players themselves. In the case of the former, there was an outside chance that, had he sustained his form and fitness, a T20 World Cup berth might have awaited as a surprise selection. However, for the brass of Indian cricket, the priority now lies in cautiously managing Yadav’s recovery.
As IPL 2024 progresses amidst these unfortunate developments, fans and teams alike will surely feel the absence of these dynamic pacers. The latest schedules, updates, and the points table can be found on the NDTV Sports platform, including through the NDTV Cricket app available on both Android and iOS devices.
With fans holding their breath for the return of these star bowlers, the teams must now look to their benches, seeking replacements that can step up to fill the void left by Yadav and Chahar’s intense pace and precision on the cricket field. As the season intensifies, it’s a reminder of the harsh unpredictability and the physical demands of the sport, even as players and enthusiasts alike await the outcome of these injuries with hopeful anticipation.