India’s star T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru following ankle surgery. While his recovery is progressing well, it remains uncertain whether he will be available for the Mumbai Indians’ first two matches in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL).
The Mumbai Indians will kick off their campaign on March 24 against last year’s runners-up Gujarat Titans. Yadav, the world’s No. 1 T20 batter, is working diligently at the NCA to regain peak match fitness.
“Surya’s rehabilitation is on track, and he will definitely return to play in the IPL,” a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity. “However, it is still unclear whether the NCA’s Sports Science and Medical Team will clear him to play in the first two away games against Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad (March 27).”
Yadav’s Instagram posts indicate that he has been engaging in extensive Strength and Conditioning (S&C) routines. However, he has yet to share any batting videos, which would provide a clearer indication of his progress.
“There are still 12 days to go before MI play their first game, but it could be a race against time to get fit by the first match itself,” the source added.
Yadav is a crucial player for both India and the Mumbai Indians. His exceptional strike rate of 171-plus and 2,141 runs in 60 T20 games make him a formidable force. He has also scored four T20I centuries.
India’s chances in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas will heavily depend on Yadav’s performance. Similarly, the Mumbai Indians’ success in the IPL hinges on his availability from the start.
Yadav last played for India in South Africa, where he led the national team in the T20 format.
