IPL 2025 faces early setbacks as LSG may miss 3 pacers and Bumrah’s return hangs in the balance. Stay updated on squad challenges here. (138 characters)
IPL 2025’s Rocky Start: Key Pacers Sidelined by Injuries
Cricket fans eagerly awaiting IPL 2025 have been hit with disappointing news: two franchises are already grappling with significant injury setbacks. The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Mumbai Indians (MI) face potential absences of star pacers, raising questions about their early-season strategies. Let’s break down the latest updates.
Lucknow Super Giants’ Bowling Blow
LSG’s pace attack is in turmoil as three key bowlers await fitness clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA):
Mayank Yadav: Out since October 2024 with a back stress fracture.
Avesh Khan: Undergoing rehab for knee cartilage issues.
Mohsin Khan: Mystery injury with limited public updates.
According to Cricbuzz, the franchise remains hopeful that at least two of the trio will be cleared in time for their opener. However, the lack of NCA approvals has left team strategists scrambling for backup plans.
Bumrah’s Lingering Back Issue: A Setback for Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians’ ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the initial IPL 2025 matches as he recovers from a lower back injury sustained during India’s fifth Test against Australia in January. Despite being named in India’s provisional Champions Trophy squad, Bumrah failed to regain fitness in time, with mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy replacing him.
Key Takeaways:
Bumrah’s last competitive match was in January 2024.
BCCI physios haven’t set a return timeline, though he’s progressing in net sessions.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar emphasized a 5-week “off-loading” period to reduce back stress, critical given his 2023 surgery history.
With India’s Test series against England in June, the NCA is prioritizing cautious rehabilitation over rushed returns.
FAQs: What Fans Need to Know
Q: When will Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan return?
A: LSG expects updates post-NCA assessments. Mayank’s back stress and Avesh’s knee rehab timelines remain fluid.
Q: Could Bumrah miss the entire IPL 2025?
A: Unlikely. Insiders suggest a phased return, possibly by mid-season, to avoid aggravating his injury.
Q: Who could replace LSG’s injured pacers?
A: The team may tap into reserves like Yash Thakur or seek emergency auctions if NCA clearances delay further.
Strategic Implications for IPL 2025
These injuries underscore the physical toll of back-to-back cricket seasons. For LSG and MI, adaptability will be key:LSG: Leaning on all-rounders like Marcus Stoinis for bowling depth.
MI: Banking on Akash Madhwal or Jason Behrendorff to fill Bumrah’s void.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Engaged
While injuries are an unavoidable part of sports, they add unpredictability to IPL 2025’s narrative. Keep an eye on official NCA updates and team announcements for real-time changes.