Former Indian cricket opener Wasim Jaffer has identified young Indian fast bowler Mayank Yadav as a potential surprise performer for the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. India is scheduled to tour Australia for a five-match series starting on November 22. This series marks the first time in 33 years that the two teams will play a five-match series, with India aiming to secure their third consecutive series win in Australia.
Commenting on India’s prospects for another series victory in Australia, Jaffer highlighted that the team, led by Rohit Sharma, has a significant opportunity, with much riding on the performance of the fast bowling trio consisting of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj. Additionally, Jaffer suggested that Arshdeep Singh could be a valuable left-arm option, and Mayank Yadav could be a dark horse if he remains fit and available.
“If Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj stay fit and play most of the series, India has a great chance to win three series in a row in Australia. Arshdeep could provide the left-arm option, and Mayank Yadav could be a surprise player if he’s fit and available. #AUSvIND,” Jaffer wrote.
In particular, he was revealed during IPL 2024 as Mayank fasteners ball made stack of the opponents. 22 year older bowlers that have stunned the world with their pace at IPL began by picking 3/27 during his very first match against Punjab Kings and helped in defending LSG’s score of 199 which also earned him Player of the Match award too. Further on his second game with Royal Challengers Bangalore, this speedster again took another 3 wickets catapulted different players throughout this tournament. For reference he has been awarded back-to-back “best player”.
This New Delhi born speed merchant however had to contend with injuries all season long and was limited only to 4 appearances in total. In those matches he accrued 7 wickets averaging just under 12 runs per wicket with an economy rate of 6.98.”
Despite not featuring in the entire tournament, Mayank’s name was on everyone’s lips for his ability to bowl over 150 kmph consistently. Hence, the speedster has great potential to be a great fast bowler for India in the longest format and his searing pace will be of great use on the bouncy pitches in Australia. However, the youngster has played just one first class game so far in his career along with 17 List A games.
