Harare, July 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India fast bowler Mayank Yadav described dismissing Zimbabwe opener Brian Bennett with the very first ball of the opening T20I as the perfect reward for his long recovery from injury, saying the moment encapsulated his difficult two-year journey back to international cricket.
Returning to the Indian team after a 21-month injury lay-off, the 24-year-old made an immediate impact, claiming Bennett with his opening delivery before finishing with figures of 2/18. His match-winning spell earned him the Player of the Match award as India defeated Zimbabwe by seven wickets in the series opener at the Harare Sports Club.
Speaking in a video shared by the BCCI, Mayank said taking a wicket with his first delivery made the long rehabilitation worthwhile.
“It was a long time waiting to play again in India colours. When I took a wicket with the very first ball, it summed up everything from the last two years,” he said.
Mayank also admitted that a wicketless IPL season had shaken his confidence. However, advice from senior players encouraged him to trust his natural strengths rather than dwell on recent setbacks.
“I was told to keep backing my skills and believing in myself. That was the only thing on my mind before bowling the first ball,” he said.
The pacer credited his mother, sister and trainer Rajni for supporting him through his recovery, describing the latter as someone who understands both him and his body exceptionally well.
Despite his impressive return, Mayank said the overwhelming feeling after the match was relief.
“There were a lot of expectations after such a long break. Getting those wickets and contributing to the team is a big relief. I’m very happy to be back playing for India again,” he said.
India took a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series after restricting Zimbabwe to 125/7, before chasing down the target comfortably, powered by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s record-breaking 18-ball half-century.
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