IPL 2025: Mayank Yadav ruled out with another back injury; Replacement announced

Mayank Yadav played only two matches in the ongoing IPL 2025 for LSG.

Mayank Yadav, a fast bowler for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), will miss the final leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to another back ailment. Will O’Rourke, a fast bowler from New Zealand, has been signed by LSG for INR 3 crores.

Before the mega auction, LSG retained three players, including Mayank. Mayank played just two games in the IPL 2025, against the Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings (PBKS), before the competition was halted on May 9 due to cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan. This was Mayank’s first time playing competitive cricket since October 2024.  

Last year, he was given a special fast bowler’s central contract by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) because of his precision and high pace, which impressed selectors. He had suffered a back issue after the Bangladesh T20Is and only made his return in IPL 2025, after a toe injury for addition.

Will O’Rourke replaces Mayank Yadav in LSG squad for remainder of IPL 2025

He bowled significantly more slowly after his return, attaining highs of 130 kph and sometimes surpassing 140 kph. LSG coach Zaheer Khan stated that they were in “constant dialogue with the NCA” and adhered to the regimen that was prescribed to him following Mayank’s first game back.

LSG have roped in New Zealand pacer William O’Rourke as an injury replacement for Mayank Yadav. William O’Rourke will be his replacement at a reserve price of ₹3 crores.

“Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have roped in New Zealand pacer William O’Rourke as an injury replacement for Mayank Yadav. Yadav sustained a back injury and is ruled out for the remainder of the season. William O’Rourke will be his replacement at a reserve price of INR 3 crore,” read the IPL statement.

One of New Zealand’s most promising young players is Will O’Rourke. The pacer, who is 23 years old, has never participated in the IPL yet. His incredible performance with the ball during last year’s three-match test series for New Zealand against India and two-match test series against Sri Lanka garnered media attention.

Under Mitchell Santner’s direction, he also contributed significantly to New Zealand’s journey to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final.

LSG, captained by Rishabh Pant, are still in the race to qualify for IPL 2025 playoffs. With 11 games played so far, the Lucknow-based team has 10 points. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (May 19), Gujarat Titans (May 22), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (May 27) are their next three opponents.

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