Suryakumar Yadav, India’s T20 captain for the upcoming three-match series against Bangladesh, has heaped praise on Mayank Yadav, claiming the youngster possesses the X-factor to shine in the Indian setup.

After impressing with his raw pace for us in the 2024 IPL season, Mayank recently earned his maiden call up for India and was included in the 15-member squad for the limited overs series against the Bangla Tigers.

A testimony to Mayank’s impact is the fact that he managed to play just four IPL matches last season before getting injured. However, the young pacer was fast-tracked intro the side as soon as he was deemed fit enough to play.

“The series is a good chance for the youngsters. Mayank has that X factor and others as well. I have not played (him) in my nets thus far. But have seen his potential and the impact he can make. He is a good addition to the Indian team,” SKY said during the pre-match press conference ahead of the first match in Gwalior on Sunday.

The Indian skipper also informed that Mayank, who has not played since suffering a side strain in the IPL back in April, has been doing his fitness drills as well.

Asked whether the 22-year-old could be in line for his international debut in Sunday’s match, Suryakumar Yadav opted to play it close to the chest and stated, “We were discussing the team just now. If you asked me 10 minutes later I would have told you whether he would play or not. But surely he has that extra pace. Need to manage him properly. There is a lot of cricket going on both international and domestic circuit.”

Wishing Mayank all the best for the season ahead and hoping to see him on the teamsheet during tomorrow’s game.