This is top-flight cricket, and you understand that you are playing on good batting wickets in India and coming back after a lay-off,” Chopra told JioStar. Former India opener Aakash Chopra praised Mayank Yadav for rediscovering his express pace and making an impact on his return to international cricket, saying the fast bowler’s three-wicket haul against the West Indies in the second T20I in Ranchi was an important confidence boost after an extended injury lay-off. “In the last match, he went for a few runs. Also, you’re obviously nervous when making a comeback.
Mayank’s ability to approach the 150 kmph mark and trouble batters offered encouragement after his recent absence from the game. Despite Mayank’s contribution, the West Indies chased down 250, reaching 252/4 in 19.2 overs to win by six wickets and level the five-match series at 1-1. Shai Hope scored an unbeaten 102 off 45 balls, while Sherfane Rutherford made 84 off 37 deliveries.
“Because you live alone for six to eight months, it’s like you’re living in a cave. Returning from rehabilitation can bring uncertainty over whether a player can recover their previous intensity, particularly for a fast bowler whose effectiveness depends heavily on pace. Chopra viewed that return to speed as a significant personal milestone, with the wickets providing further evidence of his potential to influence matches. Everyone else is playing, and you’re just watching and waiting for your turn. So, what he did in this game, more than the wickets, was the validation that he can get back to bowling at that high pace,” he stated. India will look to regroup for the third T20I in Indore as Mayank continues his comeback.
