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Mumbai’s prolific batter, Sarfaraz Khan, will not feature in the team’s first match of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season against Baroda, as he prepares for India’s upcoming Test series against New Zealand. The decision was made to allow Sarfaraz to focus on his preparation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) ahead of the crucial three-match series, starting October 16, 2024.
Sarfaraz’s Form
Sarfaraz Khan has been a dominant force in India’s domestic cricket for several seasons, continuously piling up runs in the Ranji Trophy. His remarkable performances have earned him a place in the Indian Test squad, where he made his debut against England earlier this year. Recently, Sarfaraz was released from India’s Test squad for the Bangladesh series to participate in the Irani Cup. There, he produced a stellar double-century for Mumbai, helping the team win the prestigious trophy for the first time in 27 years.
Despite being in top form, Sarfaraz’s chances in the Indian playing XI have been limited due to competition in the middle order, with KL Rahul currently occupying the No. 5 spot. Nevertheless, Sarfaraz remains a key backup, and his impressive domestic form has made him a strong contender for future Test matches.
Focus on New Zealand Series Preparations
With the Test series against New Zealand looming, Sarfaraz has been asked to report to the NCA to fine-tune his skills and fitness. The series, beginning on October 16 at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, is crucial for Sarfaraz, who is seeking to secure a permanent spot in India’s middle order. The team management has decided to prioritize his national duties over Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy opener, ensuring he is fully prepared for the international challenge ahead.
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The three-match series against New Zealand will offer Sarfaraz another opportunity to prove his mettle at the highest level. With Rahul being the first-choice middle-order batter, Sarfaraz will have to stay patient but ready, especially if the team opts for a rotation policy or encounters injuries.
Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy Campaign Without Sarfaraz
Mumbai will begin their Ranji Trophy title defense without one of their star performers. The team’s first match against Baroda, starting on October 11, will be followed by a home encounter against Maharashtra. Although the absence of Sarfaraz is a significant blow, Mumbai will look to the experience of Ajinkya Rahane, Prithvi Shaw, and Shreyas Iyer to lead their campaign in his absence.
The team has a strong squad, with seasoned players like Shardul Thakur, Siddhesh Lad, and Shams Mulani, who will look to fill the void left by Sarfaraz. Mumbai’s ability to cope without their star batter could play a pivotal role in their title defense.
Mumbai’s Squad for First Two Rounds of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25
- Ajinkya Rahane (c)
- Prithvi Shaw
- Ayush Mhatre
- Angkrish Raghuvanshi
- Shreyas Iyer
- 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
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