“This will remain the best moment of my life” - Mayank Yadav on making his debut for India in the first T20I against Bangladesh
Fast bowler Mayank Yadav has stated that making his debut for India in the first T20I of the three-match series against Bangladesh will forever be the greatest moment of his life. The match was held on Sunday, October 6, at the New Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior.
The 22-year-old first came into the spotlight during the 2024 Indian Premier League, where he impressed with his pace, clocking a fastest delivery of 156.7 km/h against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Over four matches, he took seven wickets for the Lucknow Super Giants before an injury curtailed his season.
On October 6, he returned to the field and made his international debut. Reflecting on this milestone, Mayank shared his thoughts in an Instagram post, writing:
“The best feeling for a cricketer is to play for his country and wearing the blue jersey for me it's like a dream come true......this will remain the best moment of my life. I'm very grateful for God that he gave me strength and to all the people who helped me in my hard time and supported throughout.”
The pacer started strong with a maiden over, becoming only the third cricketer—after Ajit Agarkar and Arshdeep Singh—to do so on his T20I debut for India. Mayank conceded just 21 runs in his four-over spell and took one wicket.
India register convincing 7-wicket victory in first T20I against Bangladesh
After electing to bowl first, Arshdeep Singh set the tone for India by dismissing Bangladesh opener Litton Das in the very first over. The Indian bowlers kept up the pressure, claiming wickets at regular intervals, and the visitors found themselves struggling at 57/5.
Mayank Yadav claimed his maiden international wicket by getting Mahmudullah out. Mehidy Hasan Miraz finished unbeaten on 35 off 32 balls as Bangladesh were bowled out for 127.
In reply, Sanju Samson and captain Suryakumar Yadav both scored 29 runs. Toward the end, Hardik Pandya played some impressive shots, finishing unbeaten on 39 off just 16 balls. The hosts clinched victory in the first game by seven wickets, with 49 balls to spare.