Umesh Yadav rejoins Kolkata Knight Riders, could play KKR's first home game of IPL 2017

What’s the story

Indian speedster Umesh Yadav, who missed the start of IPL 2017 due to injury, has made a comeback into the team’s training, and is likely to return to the game for Kolkata Knight Riders’ next game.

Recuperating from a hip injury, Umesh returned to the gym, and took to Twitter to announce the news of his potential comeback for KKR’s next match.

In case you didn’t know…

A much improved Yadav has been the toast of the Indian pace attack right through their home season, bowling tight lines at impressive speeds to trouble batsmen. It has been a welcome change from his former, wayward self that used to regularly come under fire for being inconsistent.

Against Australia in the Test series last month, he took 17 wickets in four games before an injury to his right hip, compounded further by a back problem, halted his charge.

The heart of the matter

With their next home fixture just two days away, Yadav returned to training sessions in the KKR outfit, posting a picture on Twitter with the gym in the background. The Kolkata Knight Riders re-shared his post through their own handle, hinting at his possible return for their next game, scheduled to be played on April 13.

Ami KKR......First day with my team training time pic.twitter.com/rSCSZ8rYiw

— Umesh Yaadav (@y_umesh) April 11, 2017

Look who has joined the team!@y_umesh is all geared up to make a thumping start in #IPL #DusKiDahaad #AmiKKR https://t.co/6SDmqgJenC

— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) April 11, 2017

Earlier, the Knight Riders’ CEO, Venky Mysore, had hinted at Umesh getting ready to join the team for their opening home game.

Hearty congrats @y_umesh. Exceptional perf 4 #TeamIndia. Enjoy the well deserved break. C u in Kol fresh & recharged on April 10! @KKRiders

— Venky Mysore (@VenkyMysore) April 1, 2017

What’s next?

In the top half of the points table with a win and a loss apiece, the Knight Riders face the Kings XI Punjab, who have won both their opening games, at the Eden Gardens on April 13.

Author’s Take

While the addition of Umesh Yadav is a good sign for the KKR team, care must be taken that he is not rushed into the game. There is no immediate requirement for his inclusion in the Kolkata side: while the overseas combination of Chris Woakes and Trent Boult had an off-day in the match against Mumbai Indians, Ankit Rajpoot managed to pick up three wickets.

Umesh is vital to India’s chances in the Champions Trophy that follows the IPL, and the Men in Blue would want him in full fitness before the big tournament.

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