NEW DELHI: The spotlight was firmly on fiery pacer Mayank Yadav as he marked his return in IPL 2026 for Lucknow Super Giants against Rajasthan Royals at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Expectations were sky-high from the young speedster, known for unleashing thunderbolts in excess of 150kph.However, his comeback after a 353-day injury layoff didn’t quite go as planned.The 23-year-old showed glimpses of his old rhythm and even breached the 150kph mark - his trademark - but endured a tough outing overall. He was taken apart for 56 runs in his four overs, went wicketless, and finished with an economy rate of 14.00 in his first appearance of the season.Lucknow Super Giants slumped to a 40-run defeat - their fifth loss in IPL 2026 - and soon after, Mayank found himself at the receiving end of criticism and trolling on social media.Former West Indies cricketer and commentator Ian Bishop was quick to defend the youngster, urging fans to show perspective and patience. Taking to X, Bishop said: "To see negative comments about Mayank Yadav today is horrifying. The kid nearly lost his career & livelihood at 21yrs. Just to see him play again is huge boost. The fact that he clocked 150kph again is a miracle. At 23yrs just pray for him that he stays fit. The control will come."

Mayank had played just two matches last season before being sidelined with a back injury. He remained out of professional cricket since then, making his long-awaited return against Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday.LSG’s campaign this season has been inconsistent. LSG began with a loss to Delhi Capitals but bounced back with wins over Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders. However, defeats to Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals have dented their progress.Lucknow Super Giants will next face Kolkata Knight Riders on April 26.