'Why is he always retained?': Ashwin fires back at Mayank Yadav's critics

Mayank Yadav's return to international cricket could hardly have gone better, and former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes the young fast bowler deserves patience after overcoming a difficult spell with injuries. Playing his first international match since October 2024, Mayank announced his comeback in style during the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The speedster was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning spell that began with a wicket off the very first ball of the contest. Mayank removed Brian Bennett for a duck with a hard-length delivery that straightened after pitching, forcing an outside edge that was safely taken behind the stumps. He continued to test Zimbabwe's batters with his pace and discipline, dismissing Dion Myers during the powerplay to leave the hosts under immediate pressure. His spell laid the platform for India's commanding bowling display. The performance marked a significant moment in the pacer's career after an injury-plagued period stalled his rapid rise. Initially fast-tracked into the Indian side as part of the team's long-term plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Mayank spent the past two years battling recurring fitness issues that repeatedly interrupted his progress. Speaking on 'Ash ki Baat', Ashwin reflected on the challenges of returning from multiple injuries and urged fans to avoid judging players too quickly. "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 also acknowledged India's convincing start to the series and congratulated new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer on securing his maiden victory as skipper. "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. Mayank's impressive return has not only revived India's pace options but also reinforced why he continues to be viewed as one of the country's most exciting fast-bowling prospects when fully fit.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.