New Delhi: Indias emerging pace sensation Mayank Yadav has been showered with high praise by former South African cricketer and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) fielding coach Jonty Rhodes. Rhodes described Yadav as the Rolls Royce of the IPL franchise, likening him to legendary pacer Allan Donald. Yadav, a product of Delhis Sonnet Cricket Club, made an explosive debut in IPL 2024, grabbing attention with his blistering pace against Punjab Kings (PBKS).Explosive debut in IPLIn his debut match, Yadav consistently clocked speeds above 145 km/h, peaking at a staggering 155.8 km/h. His performance was nothing short of remarkable as he claimed 3 wickets for 27 runs, showcasing his raw pace and control. In the four matches he played for LSG in the 2024 season, Yadav picked up four wickets at an impressive economy rate of 6.99. However, his season was cut short by an injury sustained during a match against Gujarat Titans at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, where he walked off the field due to a side strain, later confirmed as lower abdomen soreness.High praise from Jonty RhodesJonty Rhodes, while speaking to IANS, revealed the admiration within the LSG camp for Yadavs talent. Im not a bowling coach, but Morne Morkel, during the previous season, when Mayank got injured at the start of the preparation, literally Morne said, Wow, this guy (Mayank Yadav), hes like the Rolls Royce of bowlers, similar to how we used to call Allan Donald a Rolls Royce. He is LSGs Rolls Royce, Rhodes remarked.Despite his injury, Yadav remained with the team throughout the IPL season, undergoing rehabilitation and being closely monitored by the coaching staff. Rhodes emphasized the importance of managing Yadavs workload, recognizing his immense potential and comparing his raw pace to that of Umran Malik, another fast-bowling prodigy.Future prospects and challengesMayank Yadav holds the record for the fastest delivery in IPL 2024, clocking an incredible 156.7 km/h against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Bengaluru. However, his journey has been marred by injuries. He missed IPL 2023 due to an injury sustained during practice and was also sidelined for the entire 2023/24 Ranji Trophy season, undergoing rehabilitation in Mumbai.Rhodes expressed optimism about Yadavs future, stressing the importance of preparation and smart management to ensure his readiness for the next IPL season. I just hope Mayank is bowling and is fit for the whole IPL because theres a talent that is exciting, Rhodes concluded.
