Mayank Yadav’s return to international cricket could not have been better, and the former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes the young fast bowler deserves patience after overcoming a tough spell riddled with injuries. Playing his first international game since October 2024, Mayank announced his comeback in style in the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The speedster was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning spell that started with a wicket from the first ball of the match. Mayank got Brian Bennett for a duck with a hard length delivery that straightened after pitching, forcing an outside edge that was safely caught 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 set the platform for India’s commanding bowling display. The performance marked a pivotal moment in the pacer’s career after an injury-plagued spell halted his rapid rise. Initially fast-tracked by the Indian side as part of the team’s long-term plan for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Mayank has spent the last two years battling recurring health issues that have repeatedly hampered 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’s not easy to go through a stress fracture at a young age. We always see and think, why is he always retained? He is always unlucky. We can say it easily. No player plays to be injured. The injury is very painful. It is not only physical but also a mental obstacle, especially if you are injured twice. It is not easy on the body. If it comes up again, it will play on your mind. Mayank Yadav has a lot of time and amazing talent. I want him to play more,” he said on ‘Ash ki Baat’. Ashwin also acknowledged India’s convincing start to the series and congratulated the new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer to secure his first victory as captain. “Congratulations to Shreyas for the first win. He should have looked for it. There is not much to see when you restrict Zimbabwe to 120-odd. Mayank, Prince, and Ashok all got an opportunity,” he said. Mayank’s impressive comeback 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.