Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have suffered a major setback as promising Indian pacer Mayank Yadav has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2025 due to another back injury. New Zealand seamer Will O’Rourke has been brought in as a replacement at a price of ₹3 crore, marking his debut in franchise T20 cricket.
Mayank, one of LSG’s key retentions ahead of the mega auction, was returning to competitive action after nearly six months, having last played in October 2024. However, his IPL 2025 stint lasted just two matches—against Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings—before the tournament was temporarily suspended due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
Despite his reduced pace this season, Mayank’s previous performances had earned him a place in India’s fast bowling plans, including a central contract last year for his raw pace and accuracy.
Injury Woes Continue
Mayank had previously missed the entire 2024–25 domestic season following a back injury that occurred shortly after his international debut. His rehab at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru was further delayed due to a toe injury caused by a freak accident at home.
Upon his return, Mayank appeared significantly slower, clocking in the high-130s and rarely hitting the 140 kph mark. LSG mentor Zaheer Khan had earlier stated that the franchise was in “constant dialogue” with the NCA and was following a detailed recovery regimen provided by the board.
New Additions: O’Rourke and Jamieson
Will O’Rourke, the 22-year-old left-arm pacer from New Zealand, comes in with limited international T20 experience—five T20Is since his debut against Pakistan in 2024—but has also featured in 10 Tests and 17 ODIs. This IPL opportunity will be his first in a global franchise league.
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings (PBKS) have also made a replacement after New Zealand quick Lockie Ferguson was ruled out with injury. Ferguson bowled only two deliveries in a match against Sunrisers Hyderabad before walking off the field, prompting PBKS bowling coach James Hopes to confirm that he was “out indefinitely.”
Fellow Kiwi Kyle Jamieson will replace Ferguson for the remainder of the season. Jamieson, who previously represented Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2021, was also part of Quetta Gladiators in PSL 2025, where he played just two matches. He joins PBKS at a contract value of ₹2 crore.
Other Squad Updates
In related news, Gujarat Titans (GT) have signed Sri Lankan batter Kusal Mendis as a replacement for Jos Buttler, who is set to return to England duties after the league stage. Mendis joins GT for ₹75 lakh and is eligible to feature in the playoffs.
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