R Ashwin fires back at Mayank Yadav critics after his sensational comeback: 'No player plays to get injured'

It was a memorable comeback for Mayank, who was playing his first international match since October 2024. Once fast-tracked into the Indian team as part of the management's long-term plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, the express pacer saw his progress repeatedly halted by persistent injury setbacks over the past two years. His return performance not only showcased the pace and skill that earned him an India call-up but also served as a timely reminder of the impact he can make when fully fit.

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Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin praised Mayank's resilience after his successful return to international cricket, highlighting the physical and mental challenges of recovering from repeated injuries. The former India spinner urged fans to be patient with the young pacer, saying his talent is too special to be overlooked.

"It is not easy to go through a stress fracture at a young age. We often see and think, why is he always retained? He is always injured. We easily tell this. No player plays to get injured. Injury can be very painful. It is not just physical but also a mental barrier, especially if you are injured twice. It is not easy on the body. If it resurfaces, it plays on your mind. Mayank Yadav has a lot of time and is exceptionally talented. I want him to play more," he said on 'Ash ki Baat'.

Ashwin congratulates Shreyas

Ashwin also congratulated India captain Shreyas Iyer on registering his first T20I win as skipper, while praising the young pace attack for making the most of the opportunity against Zimbabwe.

"Congratulations to Shreyas for the first win. He would have been searching for it. There is not a lot to see when you restrict Zimbabwe to 120-odd. Mayank, Prince, and Ashok all got an opportunity," he said.

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