BCCI names three pacers as net bowlers for India's Asian Games 2026 campaign

BCCI Sets Up Bowling Depth: Three Pacers Named Net Bowlers for Asian Games Push

The BCCI have added firepower to the bowling attack ahead of India's Asian Games 2026 campaign in Japan. Mayank Yadav, Kartik Tyagi and Mohsin Khan have been named net bowlers, a move reportedly driven by head coach VVS Laxman who wanted extra bowling support during prep.

Here's the catch—these three travel with the contingent (departing Delhi Sept 20) but aren't part of the official squad. They'll only be on ground until India's opener on Sept 28, and that's contingent on visas clearing in time. Classic cover strategy: insurance policy for the opening fixtures.

The Numbers Game:

- Mayank Yadav (LSG): 6 T20Is, 9 wickets @ 17.22 avg. Best figures 3/29. Recently dropped off the T20I squad post-Zimbabwe tour. The express pace is his edge.

- Kartik Tyagi (KKR): Strong IPL 2026—14 matches, 18 wickets @ 27.66, econ under 10. Yet to earn a maiden T20I call-up.

- Mohsin Khan (LSG): 7 IPL matches, 11 wickets @ 20.73, including a five-wicket haul vs KKR. Also awaiting his T20I debut.

Can India Retain Gold?

India took home gold in Hangzhou 2023 under Ruturaj Gaikwad, but let's be realistic—top nations fielded second-string sides then, distracted by the ODI World Cup run-up. This time is different. Teams are fielding their XIs, and after winning the Asia Cup 2025 and the T20 WC this year, India are clear favourites in the Land of the Rising Sun.

One concern floating around—Aakash Chopra has flagged pitch readiness at the venue, raising safety questions. Worth monitoring before the team lands.

My read? These net bowlers are smart squad-building. If any regular pacer picks up a stray during prep, India's got a ready replacement. Data doesn't lie—depth wins tournaments.

Source: Crictracker