Bangladesh Captain Downplays Indian Pacer Mayank Yadav’s Debut amid Series Opener

Mayank Yadav, an emerging fast bowler for India, made waves as he debuted in the first T20 International against Bangladesh, held in Gwalior. Known for his ability to bowl consistently over speeds of 150 kilometers per hour, Yadav captured the cricketing world’s attention. Despite his impressive performance, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto offered a composed response after the match.

Yadav marked his arrival on the international scene by taking a wicket and maintaining a disciplined bowling spell, conceding only 21 runs over four overs. Although he did not breach the 150 kmph mark during the game, his pace and precision were clear as he frequently delivered balls over 140 kmph.

Shanto, while acknowledging Yadav as a skillful bowler, suggested that his team was unfazed by the newcomer’s pace, noting, “We have some similar fast bowlers in the nets. I don’t think we were too worried about Mayank Yadav. But he is a good bowler,” Shanto stated after Bangladesh fell to a seven-wicket defeat.

Despite Shanto’s apparent confidence, the match statistics highlighted India’s dominance. After dismissing Bangladesh for a mere 127 runs, the Indian team, led by stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav, achieved the target swiftly in just 11.5 overs. The Indian side, described by former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali as an “IPL eleven,” was missing several usual mainstays, including Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill.

Ali, impressed by Yadav’s performance, advocated for his inclusion in the squad set to tour Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, emphasizing the impact he could have with the new ball. “It was a dream debut for Mayank Yadav. Imagine if he had been given the new ball instead of Hardik Pandya,” remarked Ali.

As India leads the series 1-0, they are moving to New Delhi for the second match, eager to secure a series win. The team’s arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport was met with enthusiasm from local fans, signaling high spirits and anticipation for the upcoming match.