LSG vs KKR: Mayank Yadav set to be ruled out of IPL 2024, likely to get rewarded by BCCI: Report

Mayank Yadav's participation in the remainder of the league games of the ongoing IPL 2024 is reportedly in doubt after his latest injury setback. The right-arm pacer suffered a suspected abdominal muscle tear during the game between Lucknow Super Giants and Mumbai Indians in Lucknow on Tuesday (April 30).

It was his first game in the ongoing IPL 2024 since April 7 when he had to walk off the field after bowling just one over against Gujarat Titans. He had an abdominal issue on that occasion as well. Against Mumbai Indians, the tearaway pacer bowled 3.1 overs before walking off.

Speaking after the game, LSG captain KL Rahul said that the pacer's decision to walk off the field was more of a precaution after he complained of pain in the same area that had sidelined him for five games. Rahul also revealed that he advised Mayank Yadav to leave the field after the latter complained of pain.

"He was out in the last game because of a slight pain in his side, not a side strain, but slight pain there. After the first ball [of his fourth over], he said the same thing, 'thoda dukh raha hai [it's hurting a bit]'. So I said might as well go out and not risk the next five balls. He is still young and precious to us, so we need to look after him," said Rahul.

However, according to a report by PTI, the pacer could miss the remaining league games of IPL 2024. LSG will play four more league games and they are likely to miss the services of the highly-rated bowler for all the games. However, the 21-year-old could return to action if LSG qualifies for the playoffs.

"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," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by the news outlet.

Mayank Yadav to get a fast-bowling contract:

While Mayank Yadav will be disappointed with his latest injury setback, he might have done just enough to earn a fast-bowling contract from the BCCI. In February, the BCCI handed fast-bowler contracts for the first time to Umran Malik, Vidwath Kaverappa, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Yash Dayal, Akash Deep, and Mayank is set to get one as well after impressing one and all with his pace in IPL 2024.

The contract will see Mayank getting placed under the supervision of the National Cricket Academy's Sports Science and Medical team. The NCA will be taking charge of the player's injury management and fitness once the BCCI hands him the contract.

"He will soon be handed a pace bowling contract and once he is in the BCCI Pathways structure, his growth will be systematically monitored. The national selection committee and the Indian team management would like to gradually blood him and ensure that he can maintain peak fitness," the BCCI source said.