Lucknow Super Giants’ move to rely on Indian fast bowlers has backfired in the Indian Premier League 2025. Mohsin Khan didn’t play a game and was replaced by Shardul Thakur. Avesh Khan was also not fit before the start of the 18th season but managed to return. Mayank Yadav missed several games before joining the franchise, but he has now suffered a season-ending injury for the second consecutive season in the tournament.

His back injury has ended his season, and the IPL confirmed that LSG have signed New Zealand fast bowler Will O’Rourke as his replacement. The 22-year-old Indian speedster played just two matches before the latest setback.

“Lucknow Super Giants have signed New Zealand pacer William O’Rourke as an injury replacement for Mayank Yadav. Mayank has injured his back, and he is ruled out of the remaining games of the season. William O’Rourke will join the team for INR 3 crore,” the IPL said in a statement.

According to PTI, Mayank has already reported to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for recovery after his back injury resurfaced in the ongoing season.

He played against the Mumbai Indians and the Punjab Kings, taking two scalps. However, he couldn’t touch the 150 kmph and struggled to breach the 140 kmph mark.

Mayank, who played just four matches in the previous edition, missed the entire domestic season in 2024-25. His back issues came back to trouble him after he made his T20I debut against Bangladesh in October 2024.

Earlier, Mayank had said that no changes were made to his bowling action during his rehabilitation process.

“I was out of action due to a major injury. The body will take time to adapt to the conditions, and I will give some time to my body before bowling at full throttle. There have been no changes to my bowling action,” he said.

Lucknow Super Giants have 10 points from 11 matches and need to win the remaining three to stand a chance of playing in the playoffs.

Kyle Jamieson joins the Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings have roped in New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson as a replacement for injured Lockie Ferguson. He has joined PBKS for INR 2 crore. Punjab are third in the standings with 15 points from 11 matches.