Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has announced a 24-member list of probables for the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season and a new captain will be seen leading the Mumbai's pack. Star all-rounder Shardul Thakur has been appointed the captain of the side, taking over from the former leader, Ajinkya Rahane, who is still included in the squad.
MCA reveals Mumbai's Ranji Trophy probable squad
A notable absentee from the list is batsman Shreyas Iyer, who requested a six-month break from red-ball cricket due to ongoing fitness concerns. Separately, young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was not explicitly named in the 24-member list. However, an accompanying note clarifies that players currently on national duty will be incorporated into the squad based on their availability. This suggests Jaiswal remains a potential player for Mumbai in the upcoming season whenever his international commitments permit, despite earlier reports indicating he had initially planned a domestic shift to Goa before ultimately deciding to stay with Mumbai.
Overall, the squad features a blend of youth and experience, signaling a focus on developing upcoming talent. Young cricketers such as Ayush Mhatre, Musheer Khan, and Angkirsh Raghuvanshi, who have delivered strong performances for the state over the last year, have earned their spots. The batting line-up is further bolstered by familiar, experienced names including Sarfaraz Khan and Siddhesh Lad. On the bowling front, the return of Tushar Deshpande adds strength to the 24-member contingent.
The squad's spin department will be anchored by two key figures: the experienced Shams Mulani and the prolific Tanush Kotian. Providing options behind the stumps are three designated wicketkeepers: Akash Anand, Hardik Tamore, and Prasad Pawar. After a disappointing performance last season, the team will be focused on making a strong comeback in the upcoming campaign.
The transition in leadership sees Shardul Thakur take the helm as captain. This change follows Ajinkya Rahane's decision to step down from the leadership role after the last domestic season. Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Rahane remains a vital presence in the squad. Having led Mumbai to the Ranji Trophy title in the 2023-24 season, he is expected to continue playing a crucial senior role in guiding the many youngsters included in the new squad.
Mumbai is set to kick off its Ranji Trophy 2025-26 campaign with an away fixture. Their season begins with a match against Jammu and Kashmir in Srinagar.
Mumbai’s probables Ranji Trophy 2025-26 squad:
Shardul Thakur (c), Ayush Mhatre, Musheer Khan, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Akhil Herwadkar, Ajinkya Rahane, Sarfaraz Khan, Siddhesh Lad, Suved Parkar, Suryansh Shedge, Akash Parkar, Tushar Deshpande, Sylvester Dsouza, Irfan Umair, Roystan Dias, Pratik Mishra, Akash Anand (wk), Hardik Tamore (wk), Prasad Pawar (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Himanshu Singh, Atharva Ankolekar, and Ishan Mulchandani.