Introduction: Mumbai Names 16-Member Squad

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Saturday announced its formidable 16-member squad for the upcoming 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season opener. The domestic giants are set to begin their campaign against Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), but the list reveals a major talking point: the exclusion of global T20 sensation and middle-order stalwart, Suryakumar Yadav (SKY).

SKY’s name was notably absent from the roster, indicating that the ‘He-Man of Mumbai’ will not feature in the opening fixture of the premier domestic tournament, likely due to a busy international schedule or strategic rest managed by the national selection committee.

The Omission of Suryakumar Yadav

Suryakumar Yadav, who remains one of the most bankable and explosive batsmen in the country, was widely anticipated to feature, particularly since he often uses domestic cricket to maintain red-ball form when his national duties allow. His absence from the first match suggests that the 35-time Ranji champions will have to rely on their experienced domestic core to kickstart their campaign.

Sources close to the MCA indicate that SKY is currently managing a heavy workload ahead of several important limited-overs series, and his inclusion will be assessed on a match-by-match basis later in the tournament.

Leadership and Key Players

Mumbai will be led by seasoned first-class veteran Ajinkya Rahane, who continues to anchor the team’s middle-order. Supporting Rahane will be the explosive opener Prithvi Shaw as his deputy.

The squad features a blend of proven talent and exciting youth:

• Batting: The batting unit boasts strong names like Sarfaraz Khan (pending national call-up) and the consistent run-getter Musheer Khan.
• Bowling: The pace attack will be spearheaded by the sharp seam of Tushar Deshpande, while the spin duties will be managed by Shams Mulani, who remains a crucial all-rounder for the side.

Fixture Details

The Mumbai squad will travel to Jammu for their opening match of the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, scheduled to begin on October 25, 2025, against Jammu & Kashmir. This game marks the beginning of Mumbai’s quest to reclaim the coveted title.

Mumbai’s Full 16-Member Squad:

Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Prithvi Shaw (Vice-Captain), Sarfaraz Khan, Musheer Khan, Shivam Dube, Hardik Tamore (Wicketkeeper), Prasad Pawar (Wicketkeeper), Tanush Kotian, Shams Mulani, Tushar Deshpande, Mohit Avasthi, Royston Dias, Dhrumil Matkar, Armaan Jaffer, Siddharth Raut, and Aakash Parkar.