With the T20 WC coming right after the IPL 2024, chief selector Ajit Agarkar credited the tournament for the important role it played in talent identification and promotion. Players like Mayank Yadav have certainly given the selectors a good headache with their performance making them worthy of the T20 WC squad contention.
Since its inception in 2008, the IPL and T20 cricket has grown considerably. Household names such as Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rinku Singh have earned the coveted India cap after impressive performances in the elusive league.
“You can see every year, the IPL just keeps throwing up fresh talent. As a selector there are certain players, we are watching out for but there are certain players who suddenly come and show up even on a big stage,” said Agarkar in a recent interview with SportifyWithPRG
Did Agarkar hint at Mayank Yadav’s selection?
The chief selector’s words, however, seemingly hint at the likely consideration of LSG pacer Mayank Yadav for the T20 WC who has become the talk of the cricketing fraternity. In his debut season of the IPL, Yadav has garnered widespread admiration for his pace. His impressive performances have earned praise from fans and experts alike, with former India fast bowler and bowling coach T.A. Sekar, along with Ian Bishop and former national selector Jatin Paranjpe, advocating for his inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad.
Check out more news
It is a big stage because of the pressure involved and the big crowds. You might be bowling to the top batters in the world or facing one of the top bowlers, this is where you can judge the temperament of the player and how consistently he can do it.” Agarkar concluded.
Despite being acquired for a mere Rs 20 lakh, the 21-year-old Delhi pacer has made a significant impact in the tournament. Yadav’s remarkable debut saw him deliver the fastest ball of the ongoing edition, clocking in at 155.8 kmph against Punjab Kings. He further raised the bar by bowling even faster at 156.7 kmph against Royal Challengers Bangalore.