Mumbai will begin their Ranji Trophy 2025β26 campaign without key all-rounder Shivam Dube, who has been ruled out of the season opener against Jammu & Kashmir, starting Wednesday (October 15) in Srinagar. The 30-year-old had travelled with the squad but was forced to return to Mumbai on Tuesday evening after suffering from back stiffness, reportedly aggravated by the chilly conditions in the valley.
According to reports, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) medical team assessed his condition and recommended rest to prevent further injury. The move is believed to be a precautionary measure, especially since Dube is part of Indiaβs T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series in Australia, beginning on October 29.
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Mumbai banking on depth in Dubeβs absence
Despite his absence, Mumbai remains confident of a strong start under the captaincy ofΒ Shardul Thakur. The responsibility now shifts to Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian, who will have to manage both batting and bowling duties in Dubeβs stead.
Over the past couple of seasons, Dube has been a standout performer for Mumbai, balancing his national duties with domestic commitments whenever possible. His explosive batting and medium-pace bowling have made him a pivotal figure in red-ball cricket.
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Veteran Ajinkya Rahane, who continues as a senior member after relinquishing captaincy, has been training since July and is expected to anchor the middle order. Mumbai also welcomes back Musheer Khan, fit again after missing last season with a neck injury, alongside his brother Sarfaraz Khan, who has recovered from a quadriceps issue.
Placed in Elite Group D alongside Delhi, Hyderabad, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Puducherry, and J&K, Mumbai will look to avenge their shocking home defeat to J&K from last season and reclaim their dominance in the domestic circuit.
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