Is Mayank Yadav worth a staggering ₹11 crore? That's the burning question former India player Aakash Chopra is posing to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as they gear up for the IPL 2026 auction. The core of the debate centers around whether LSG should release the young speedster.
Chopra's argument hinges on a simple, yet critical, point: Mayank's availability. Considering his injury woes, which have sidelined him for a significant portion of the last two seasons, Chopra believes the hefty price tag might not be justified. Remember, LSG finished a disappointing seventh out of ten teams in IPL 2025. Mayank was one of their high-value retentions, but played only a couple of games in the recent season.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra shared his insights. He suggested LSG retain Rishabh Pant, emphasizing his value as a 'dynamite' player and captain, even if it means a significant investment of ₹27 crore. Chopra believes that building a team isn't about penny-pinching.
But here's where it gets controversial: Chopra's assessment of Mayank Yadav. He acknowledged Mayank's match-winning potential when fit, but also highlighted the harsh reality of his limited playing time. If a player can't consistently contribute due to injuries, is their value truly worth the price? Chopra's suggestion? Let Mayank go, and perhaps try to reacquire him later if desired.
Rishabh Pant's performance in IPL 2025 saw him score 269 runs, including an unbeaten 118 in LSG's final league game, with an average of 24.45 across 13 innings. Mayank Yadav, in the two games he played, took two wickets with an economy rate of 12.50.
What about the other players?
Chopra also weighed in on other potential LSG releases. He advocated for retaining Ravi Bishnoi, despite his ₹11 crore price tag. Chopra believes Bishnoi, a proven T20 match-winner, would still command a high price in the mini-auction, making retention the more prudent move.
He further recommended retaining Avesh Khan, despite his ₹9.75 crore price, due to the need for Indian fast bowlers. However, he suggested releasing Akash Deep, valued at ₹8 crore, due to his perceived underperformance in white-ball cricket.
Finally, while acknowledging Mohsin Khan's fitness concerns, Chopra advised LSG to retain the left-arm seamer. Interestingly, he initially considered releasing David Miller but ultimately recommended retaining the South African middle-order batter.
What do you think? Do you agree with Aakash Chopra's assessment of Mayank Yadav's value? Should LSG prioritize retaining players with injury histories, or focus on consistent performers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
