Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Suryakumar Yadav Dropped From Mumbai Squad, Ayush Mhatre Named Vice-Captain

In a significant development shaking up Mumbai's Ranji Trophy aspirations, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has announced its 14-member squad for the upcoming 2026-27 season opener, conspicuously leaving out former India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav. This decision comes despite Yadav making himself available for the entire red-ball domestic season, signaling a definitive shift in the team's selection philosophy. Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Prithvi Shaw, Ruturaj Gaikwad Named in Ankeet Bawane-Led Maharashtra Squad.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the squad announcement, the selectors have named 19-year-old Ayush Mhatre, who captained India to the Under-19 World Cup title earlier in 2026, as the vice-captain. Siddhesh Lad will lead the Mumbai side, which also includes prominent names like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan.

Suryakumar Yadav Omission Sparks Debate

Suryakumar Yadav, who recently led India to the T20 World Cup 2026 title before being dropped from the national T20I team and sacked as skipper, has not played a first-class match for Mumbai since their Ranji Trophy semi-final defeat in 2025. His prolonged absence from red-ball cricket appears to be a key factor in the selectors' decision. Mumbai chief selector Rajesh Pawar stated that the panel aims to provide opportunities to younger talent, though he kept the door open for experienced players like Yadav to return if they play more red-ball matches.

A New Era with Ayush Mhatre

The elevation of Ayush Mhatre to the vice-captaincy role underscores Mumbai's commitment to nurturing its young talent. Mhatre, a promising right-handed batter, has already demonstrated his leadership prowess by guiding India to the U-19 World Cup triumph. He has accumulated 660 runs in 13 first-class matches at an average of 30. His appointment also reflects a growing trend in Indian domestic cricket.

Mhatre's inclusion is particularly noteworthy as he returns to competitive cricket after a five-month layoff due to a hamstring injury sustained during the IPL 2026 season. His immediate reintegration into a leadership role speaks volumes about the faith the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has in his abilities and potential.

Ranji Trophy Opener: Mumbai vs Chandigarh

Mumbai, a 42-time Ranji Trophy champion, is set to kick off its 2026-27 campaign against Chandigarh. The match is scheduled from October 11 to October 14, 2026, and will be held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Mumbai's Ranji Trophy Squad for Opener:

• Siddhesh Lad (Captain)
• Ayush Mhatre (Vice-Captain)
• Yashasvi Jaiswal
• Divyansh Saxena
• Musheer Khan
• Sarfaraz Khan
• Suved Parkar
• Hardik Tamore (Wicketkeeper)
• Shams Mulani
• Tanush Kotian
• Atharva Ankolekar
• Tushar Deshpande
• Mohit Awasthi
• Onkar Tarmale

Meanwhile, seasoned all-rounder Shardul Thakur will also miss the initial matches due to a hand injury, while India Test opener Yashasvi Jaiswal's participation is slated for only a few matches as he prepares for a potential international assignment, likely a Test tour of New Zealand. BCCI Set to Hike Domestic Umpires and Match Referees' Match Fees with New Graded Structure: Report.

The 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season itself is set to run from October 11, 2026, to March 3, 2027, with the first phase of league matches concluding on November 5, 2026. This opening fixture marks the beginning of a crucial season for Mumbai as they look to assert their dominance with a revamped squad and a focus on building for the future.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 06, 2026 10:23 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).