The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Thursday unveiled their Ranji Trophy squad for the initial two games of the season 2024-25, making some intriguing selections. While Shreyas Iyer retained his place, the surprising omission was Sarfaraz Khan, a potential candidate for the upcoming India Test series against New Zealand.

Shreyas Iyer’s redemption bid

Iyer, who faced criticism last season for skipping the Ranji Trophy quarter-final, has made a conscious effort to prioritize red-ball cricket this year. He participated in all three games of the Duleep Trophy and the Irani Cup, showcasing his intent. Despite scoring half-centuries in these tournaments, Iyer’s performances haven’t been deemed exceptional enough to cement his place in the Indian Test squad.

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Ajinkya Rahane’s captaincy continues for Mumbai

Ajinkya Rahane, who led Mumbai to Irani Cup glory after 27 years, will continue as the captain for the upcoming Ranji season. His impressive 97-run knock in the Irani Cup has kept him in contention for a potential return to the Indian Test team for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Sarfaraz Khan’s absence for Mumbai team

The absence of Sarfaraz from the Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad is a significant blow, as he most probably will be going to fulfill his national commitments against New Zealand for two Test matches. His exceptional 222 runs in the Irani Cup played a crucial role in Mumbai’s title triumph. His absence will undoubtedly weaken Mumbai’s middle order. His brother, Musheer Khan, will also miss the first two games due to a neck injury.

Other notable selections

All-rounder Shardul Thakur has retained his place in the squad, providing another opportunity to impress the national selectors. The inclusion of Kolkata Knight Riders youngster Angkrish Raghuvanshi is a notable addition. The usual suspects like Siddhesh Lad, Prithvi Shaw, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, and Mohd. Juned Khan have also made the cut.

As Mumbai gears up for the Ranji Trophy, the team will be eager to make a strong statement and secure their place among the contenders. The absence of Sarfaraz is a setback, but the presence of experienced players like Rahane and Iyer, coupled with the promising talent of youngsters like Raghuvanshi, could help Mumbai navigate the challenges ahead.

Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad for first two matches:

Ajinkya Rahane (c), Prithvi Shaw, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Siddhesh Lad, Suryansh Shedge, Hardik Tamore (wk), Mohd. Juned Khan, Sidhaant Addhatrao (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Himanshu Singh, Mohit Avasthi, Royston Dias, Ayush Mhatre.

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