Aakash said Mayank was focusing on his body upon his return to cricket after an extended gap.
Former cricketer Aakash Chopra feels India’s speed sensation Mayank Yadav wasn't looking to breach the 150 kmph mark in his maiden international outing on Sunday (October 6).
The first game of the three-T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior marked Mayank’s India debut. The 22-year-old, was caught the imagination of the cricketing world with his express pace in the IPL 2024 season, was out of action for the last 4 months with an injury and didn't play any competitive cricket.
After he regained his complete fitness, the Delhi lad was drafted straight into the Indian squad for the T20I series against Bangladesh.
During his debut spell, Mayank consistently troubled the Bangladeshi batters, clocking a maximum speed of 149.9 kph, showing why he is regarded as a future asset for India’s pace attack.
Playing for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2024 season, Mayank Yadav consistently bowled at speeds greater than 150 kph and delivered the fourth-fastest ball in IPL history at 156.7 kph.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aakash said Mayank was focusing on his body upon his return to cricket after an extended gap.
"Mayank Yadav bowled his first over as a maiden - Mayank 'Gatimaan' Yadav. He hadn't played cricket for four months. He was coming back after an injury. There were a few butterflies in his stomach. There was a little nervous energy as well," Aakash stated.
"However, he started well and tried to bowl in straight lines. He wasn't trying to reach 150-160 kph because there was a little more focus on the body - 'Let's not push myself because I am coming back after an injury'. However, there is no doubt that this bowler has pace," he added.
According to Aakash Chopra, Mayank Yadav has got all the ingredients to succeed at the highest level. The cricketer-turned-commentator also believes that the young tearaway will be given ample time by the Indian team management to grow into a key player for the side.
"He bowled at a good pace and showed that he has got the ingredients. You are seeing the ingredients as of now with which an excellent dish can be prepared. However, that will take some time and the Indian team will give him time, that's what I feel," said Chopra.
Coming to the first T20I, India defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The second game of the series is scheduled to take place in Delhi on Wednesday (October 9).