Ashwin defends Mayank Yadav after Player of the Match comeback against Zimbabwe

Young Indian pacer Mayank Yadav made his international return in a T20I against Zimbabwe after being sidelined since October 2024 due to injury. He delivered an impressive bowling performance, earning the Player of the Match award in the process. India won the opening T20I convincingly, with Mayank's return adding to the team's momentum. Veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin responded to critics by calling for patience toward players dealing with prolonged physical and mental recovery challenges.