After getting ousted from Indian test team, Ajinkya Rahane named captain of Mumbai for Ranji Trophy 2023-24 season

Ajinkya Rahane last played a test match for India against West Indies in July 2023.

In a surprising turn of events, Ajinkya Rahane, the seasoned Indian cricketer, finds himself as the captain of Mumbai Ranji Trophy team for the 2023-24 season for the first two matches against Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. This development comes after his exclusion from Indian test team following a period of inconsistent performances. Rahane’s journey has been marked by highs and lows, and this responsibility with Mumbai squad could serve as a potential chance for redemption.

After being sidelined from the Indian test team due to a slump in form, Ajinkya Rahane spent a year in the domestic circuit, aiming to regain his touch. His exclusion from the national team was a result of a prolonged dip in performance, which saw him miss out on selection even after being brought back post a successful domestic stint. Mumbai skipper had a commendable outing in the 2022-23 Ranji Trophy, scoring 634 runs from 11 innings at an impressive average of 57.63.

Ajinkya Rahane to lead Mumbai in Ranji Trophy 2023-24 season

Rahane’s roller-coaster journey took a positive turn as he made a strong comeback to Indian test team after a series of impactful performances in domestic cricket and Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. However, post Indian team’s tour of the West Indies in 2023, Rahane’s name has been conspicuously absent from the test squad. Despite not being included in the ongoing test series in South Africa, Rahane has now been entrusted with the captaincy of Mumbai Ranji Trophy team.

The decision to appoint Rahane as the captain suggests that his leadership qualities and experience are valued by Mumbai Cricket Association. It also signifies an opportunity for Rahane to not only lead from the front but also to showcase his skills with the bat and stake a claim for a return to the Indian test side. His remarkable performance in the previous Ranji Trophy season underscores his ability to make a significant impact on the game.

Yashasvi Jaiswal who is travelling with Indian team and currently playing in the two match test series against South Africa wont be available for selection. While Prithvi Shaw who is recovering from his injury, also doesn’t find a place in Mumbai’s squad for the first two matches. Shaw has been out of action for a few months.

Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad for 2023-24 season: Ajinkya Rahane (c), Jay Bista, Bhupen Lalwani, Hardik Tamore, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Suved Parkar, Prasad Pawar, Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Tushar Deshpande, Mohit Avasthi, Dhaval Kulkarni, Royston Dias, Atharva Ankolekar.

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