The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) announced its Ranji Trophy squad for the first two matches of the season on October 8. Notably, Sarfaraz Khan, a standout performer expected to feature in India’s upcoming Test series against New Zealand, has been left out of the squad, while Shreyas Iyer retains his place.
Iyer faced criticism last season for skipping the Ranji Trophy quarter-finals, which even led to the loss of his BCCI contract. However, this year, he has placed a renewed focus on red-ball cricket. Iyer has participated in three Duleep Trophy games and the Irani Cup, where he recorded two half-centuries in the Duleep Trophy and another in the Irani Cup.
Despite these contributions, critics feel that Iyer is yet to hit peak form. Ajinkya Rahane, fresh off leading Mumbai to Irani Cup victory, will continue to captain the team this Ranji season. Rahane played a critical role in the Irani Cup win with a composed knock of 97 runs in the first innings against the Rest of India.
ALSO READ: Ian Chappell Warns Australia Against Using Travis Head As An Opener In BGT
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy approaching, the veteran batter will be eager to maintain his form and push for a spot in the Indian team. The absence of Sarfaraz Khan will be a significant blow to Mumbai’s middle order.
Mumbai squad selected for first two matches of Ranji Trophy against Baroda from 11th to 14th October 2024 and against Maharashtra from 18th to 21st October 2024. #RanjiTrophy #Cricket #IndianCricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/UuBeu0Uqdc
— Rajesh Khilare (@Cricrajeshpk) October 7, 2024
His commanding double-century in the Irani Cup (222 runs) was instrumental in securing Mumbai’s title win. Without him, the team may struggle to maintain the same batting depth. Sarfaraz’s brother, Musheer Khan, will also miss the first two games as he recovers from a neck injury sustained in an accident.
ALSO READ: Sanjay Manjrekar Criticizes Dubai Pitch for Hindering Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma
Among others, all-rounder Shardul Thakur retained his place and is expected to use this opportunity to impress national selectors ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Young talent Angkrish Raghuvanshi also received his maiden call-up, joining regulars like Prithvi Shaw, Siddhesh Lad, and Shams Mulani in the squad.
Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad for first two games:
Ajinkya Rahane (c), Prithvi Shaw, Ayush Mhatre, Shreyas Iyer, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Siddhesh Lad, Suryansh Shedge, Hardik Tamore (wk), Sidhaant Addhatrao (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Himanshu Singh, Shardul Thakur, Mohit Avasthi, Mohd. Juned Khan, Royston Dias.
