Punjab Newsline,Sports :
Fast bowler’s comeback and Tilak Varma’s return boost India A preparations before global event
Fast bowler Mayank Yadav has taken a significant step forward in his comeback journey as he was named in the India A squad for warm-up matches ahead of the T20 World Cup. The right-arm pacer will feature in preparatory games against the USA and Namibia, marking his return to competitive cricket after a long injury layoff.
Mayank, who grabbed headlines with his raw pace and match-winning spells during IPL 2024, had been sidelined for over a year due to a stress fracture. The Lucknow Super Giants bowler last played a competitive match during IPL 2025 against Punjab Kings. His selection in the India A squad underlines the selectors’ cautious approach, giving him an opportunity to regain rhythm and confidence before the high-intensity World Cup environment.
Alongside Mayank, Tilak Varma has also made a timely return to action. The left-handed batter has been cleared by the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence following a successful recovery from a groin injury. Tilak had missed the recent T20I series against New Zealand and will now use the warm-up fixtures to get valuable match practice before linking up with the senior Indian squad.
“Tilak Varma will play in one warm-up match before joining the senior team,” the BCCI said in a social media post while announcing the India A squad.
India A will take on the USA at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on February 2, followed by a match against Namibia at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru on February 6. These games are crucial not only for fringe players pushing for senior selection but also for those returning from injuries who need game time ahead of the marquee tournament.
The 15-member India A squad will be led by Ayush Badoni and features a blend of experience and emerging talent. Young players such as Naman Dhir, Vipraj Nigam and Riyan Parag will look to impress, while experienced campaigners like Ravi Bishnoi and Khaleel Ahmed add stability and balance to the side.
Defending champions India will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against the USA on February 7. With the tournament fast approaching, the warm-up matches serve as a vital dress rehearsal as India fine-tunes combinations and assesses player readiness for the global stage.
India A squad: Ayush Badoni (capt), Naman Dhir, Ashutosh Sharma, Priyansh Arya, N Jagadeesan (wk), Tilak Varma, Riyan Parag, Manav Suthar, Ashok Sharma, Urvil Patel (wk), Gurjapneet Singh, Vipraj Nigam, Ravi Bishnoi, Khaleel Ahmed, Mayank Yadav.