The highly-anticipated IPL 2025 encounter between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) got underway at the iconic Wankhede Stadium with an early twist at the toss. Lucknow skipper Rishabh Pant won the toss and chose to field first, looking to take advantage of the fresh surface in the afternoon heat.
While both sides introduced a few changes to their playing XIs, the most talked-about alteration was the comeback of young speedster Mayank Yadav into LSG’s setup. Struggling at the sixth position on the points table, LSG are in desperate need of momentum, and the return of Mayank could just be the timely boost they were looking for.
Who did Mayank Yadav replace in LSG?
Speaking at the toss, Pant revealed that Mayank had replaced Shardul Thakur in the starting XI. Shardul, who had been unable to produce consistent performances this season, had to make way for the promising fast bowler. The team management had been eagerly awaiting Mayank’s recovery from injury, and his return couldn’t have come at a better time for LSG.
“We’re bowling first. In day games, it’s important to make use of the early assistance on offer. Every match is a new beginning for us. Just the one change — Mayank Yadav comes in for Shardul Thakur,” Pant mentioned during the toss presentation.
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Mayank’s return adds firepower to LSG’s attack
Mayank’s presence immediately strengthens Lucknow’s bowling unit. Despite featuring in only four IPL matches so far, his impact has been phenomenal. Batters have struggled significantly against him, failing to make contact with 36% of his deliveries — the highest recorded percentage in IPL history. To put it into perspective, his miss percentage is 6% better than that of Shaun Tait, who held the previous record.
Across his brief career, Mayank has already claimed seven wickets, maintaining an excellent economy rate of 6.98. His raw pace, accuracy, and ability to trouble top-order batters make him a vital asset, especially at a stage when LSG need wins to stay in playoff contention. With Mayank back in the fold, LSG fans will be hopeful that his fiery spells can turn their season around.
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