The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 has been a spectacle of fierce competition and emerging talent, but Match 7 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians stole headlines for an unexpected reason. A candid snapshot of rising stars Mayank Yadav and Shreyanka Patil sitting together in the stands sparked a social media wildfire, with fans speculating about a budding romance. But before the rumour mill spins further, let’s unravel the truth behind the viral moment.
Mayank Yadav and Shreyanka Patil’s picture that broke the internet
During the RCB vs. MI clash, cameras panned to the stands, capturing 21-year-old pace sensation Mayank and RCB’s spin prodigy Shreyanka watching the WPL clash together. The image spread like wildfire, with fans dissecting every pixel. “Are they dating?” “Is this cricket’s newest power couple?” Theories ranged from playful guesses to elaborate fan-fiction narratives. The timing couldn’t have been more dramatic—Shreyanka, a fan favorite, was sidelined from WPL 2025, while Mayank had been absent from men’s cricket since late 2024. But the reality? Far simpler than fiction.
— Out Of Context Cricket (@GemsOfCricket) February 21, 2025
Is this cricket’s newest power couple?#ShreyankaPatil #mayankyadav #Mayanka #Padav pic.twitter.com/M0ltSsVvjg
— Aatish Kapoor the oscar winner (@AkashThapa2505) February 22, 2025
NCA being the match maker or what?
Are the dating?
Pace is pace= Mayank Yadav 🤪#ShreyankaPatil #mayankyadav pic.twitter.com/5hV88wkCTY
— Aman (@Amanriz78249871) February 22, 2025
Also WATCH: Amanjot Kaur shatters Richa Ghosh’s off stump with an spectacular delivery in the WPL 2025
From recovery to rumor mill
The truth lies not in romance but in rehabilitation. Both athletes are currently recovering from injuries at Bengaluru’s National Cricket Academy (NCA). Mayank, India’s promising fast bowler, has been nursing a recurring back injury since October 2024. Shreyanka, WPL 2024’s leading wicket-taker with 13 scalps, suffered a shin injury that ruled her out of this season’s tournament. Their presence at the stadium was purely professional—a chance to support their teams while bonding over shared recovery journeys.
What’s next for the duo?
For Shreyanka, the focus is on regaining full fitness ahead of India’s upcoming tour of England. Her absence has left a void in RCB’s spin attack, with fans eagerly awaiting her return. Meanwhile, Mayank’s recovery is being closely monitored by BCCI medical staff, as his raw pace is seen as vital for India’s T20 World Cup campaign later this year. His camaraderie with Shreyanka highlights the often-overlooked mental resilience required during injury comebacks.
Also WATCH: RCB superstar Ellyse Perry makes her singing debut with a Kannada song
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.