As the eagerly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 approaches, former India opener Wasim Jaffer has named young fast bowler Mayank Yadav as a potential game-changer for the series. India is set to tour Australia for a five-match Test series, starting November 22, marking the first time in 33 years that the two teams will face off in a series of this length. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team is aiming for an unprecedented hat trick of series victories Down Under, having won the previous two tours in 2018-19 and 2020-21.

Jaffer, who has been vocal about India's chances, highlighted the importance of the pace trio—Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj—in securing another series win. He emphasized that if these key players remain fit and available throughout the series, India stands a strong chance of retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In addition to the established pacers, Jaffer pointed out the potential impact of Arshdeep Singh as a left-arm option and identified Mayank Yadav as a 'dark horse' who could surprise the Australian lineup with his express pace.

"If Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj stay fit and are able to play most of the series, India has a great opportunity for a hat-trick Down Under. Arshdeep could bring the left-arm option. And Mayank Yadav, dark horse provided he's fit and available," Jaffer shared on his X account.

Mayank Yadav, a 22-year-old speedster, made headlines during the Indian Premier League 2024 (IPL 2024) with his exceptional pace, consistently clocking speeds over 150 kmph. His debut for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) saw him take 3/27 against Punjab Kings, earning him the Player of the Match award. He followed this up with another stellar performance, taking 3/14 against Royal Challengers Bangalore, which secured him a second consecutive Player of the Match award. Despite battling injuries that limited him to just four matches in the tournament, Mayank finished with seven wickets at an impressive average of 12.14 and an economy rate of 6.98.

While his experience in first-class cricket is limited, with only one game under his belt, Jaffer believes Mayank’s raw pace could be a significant asset on the bouncy Australian pitches. His potential to evolve into a formidable fast bowler for India in Test cricket is undeniable, and his inclusion in the squad could add a new dimension to India's bowling attack.

India and Australia, currently the top two sides in the World Test Championship standings, will see this series as crucial in the race for the title. The two teams last met in the WTC 2023 final, where Australia emerged victorious. As part of their preparation, India will play a two-Test series against Bangladesh at home next month, followed by a three-Test series against New Zealand before heading to Australia.

With a mix of seasoned campaigners and promising young talents like Mayank Yadav, India’s quest for a third consecutive series win in Australia promises to be an exciting battle.