Indian pace bowler Mayank Yadav has moved a step closer to returning to cricket following successful back surgery in Christchurch, New Zealand. The procedure was conducted by renowned orthopaedic spine specialist Dr. Rowan Schouten, who has treated elite cricketers such as Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Jason Behrendorff, and Cameron Green. The surgery involved the L5 vertebra on both sides of Yadav's lower back. The surgery came after recurring injury issues that kept him away from key tournaments. Yadav has just returned to India and is set to start his rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) shortly. But there is no definite time for his return, as the medical team will proceed cautiously. Sources told IANS: “Yes, Mayank came back to India last week after undergoing surgery in New Zealand. The surgery led by Dr Schouten was done on L5 vertebra – both left and right sides. Once the basic healing phase is over, Mayank is expected to start his extensive rehab in the coming weeks at the CoE. As of now, no timelines are set on his recovery and rehab as there will be no rush in his case." Also Read | 4 IPL Teams That Should Go After Jamie Smith in IPL 2026 Mini Auction Injury Setbacks Hold Up Mayank's Promising Career Mayank Yadav has struggled with injuries in his early life. He became the center of attention during IPL 2024 by bowling at a speed of 150 kmph and earning Player of the Match for his first two matches with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). However, a side strain restricted him to four games for that season. He came back after rehab to play his India debut against Bangladesh in October 2024. Unfortunately, he picked up a stress-related back injury, which kept him out of the 2024/25 domestic season. His return to the IPL 2025 was again delayed due to a toe infection, and even when he turned up to play two matches, his pace was down considerably. Following a short return, the back pain resurfaced, and he was once again ruled out. New Zealand fast bowler Will O'Rourke was roped in as his replacement by LSG. The positive news is that Yadav is presently pain-free, and his medical staff is optimistic that he will gradually return to full fitness.