Mayank Yadav to return for Delhi in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy; Sanjeev calls it a big boost

Mayank Yadav will make his return for Delhi in the 2026-27 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy against Jammu & Kashmir at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Saturday, and Delhi bowling coach Sanjeev Sharma described the pacer’s presence as a major boost to the side.

Not since 2023 has Mayank featured for Delhi in domestic cricket after a run of injuries, and India has kept him under close supervision as they worked on his development. He played three T20Is for India in 2024 following an eye-catching IPL season for Lucknow Super Giants and returned to international action this year with appearances against Zimbabwe, West Indies and New Zealand. The 24-year-old tearaway will be part of Delhi’s squad for the tournament.

“His presence is a big boost for the team. He is looking very fit. He was getting the ball to swing in the air at speed during the net sessions. There is a day’s gap after every match in the group stage. So he looks ready to play all the games,” the former India pacer told The Hindu over the phone.

On Mayank’s raw pace, Sanjeev made a direct assessment: “Anyone who bowls 145kmph-plus is a wicket-taker. Such bowlers can change the game at any stage,” Sanjeev, who played two Tests and 23 ODIs for India, reckoned.

Delhi’s bowling unit also includes Ishant Sharma alongside younger options Harshit Rana, Simarjeet Singh, Digvesh Rathi and Suyash Sharma. Five years since playing the last of his 105 Tests, the 38-year-old adds immeasurable wisdom to the outfit.

“Ishant is 38, but he looks more like 32. He is full of energy and always guiding the younger bowlers,” noted Sanjeev. “If he has committed to playing, he will deliver”.

Mayank has the ability to swing the ball at speed, and he is available for the entire Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign; Delhi begin their tournament against Jammu & Kashmir at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Saturday.