Mumbai cricket: Suryakumar Yadav excluded from Ranji Trophy opener

Mumbai captain Siddhesh Lad addressed team selections and player developments ahead of the Ranji Trophy season opener against Chandigarh. Lad confirmed that Suryakumar Yadav has been excluded from the squad by selectors due to a lack of red-ball practice and recent absences from team training. While Lad expressed respect for Yadav’s contributions to Mumbai and Indian cricket, he stated he supports the management’s decision and will focus on the current 15-member squad.

Additionally, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is reportedly working to develop wicketkeeping skills to add versatility to his game. Lad noted that Jaiswal has been practicing wicketkeeping drills and expressed optimism about his availability and value to the team.

In leadership news, 19-year-old Ayush Mhatre has been named vice-captain of Mumbai. Mhatre, who recently led India to an Under-19 World Cup victory, mentioned that he relies on leadership advice from MS Dhoni regarding maintaining calmness during high-pressure on-field decisions.