The Maharashtra Cricket Association has announced a well-balanced 16-member squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy campaign, naming experienced batter Ankeet Bawane as captain.
The selection is highlighted by the inclusion of marquee top-order batters Prithvi Shaw and Ruturaj Gaikwad, alongside seasoned all-rounder Jalaj Saxena, setting up a potent mix of international pedigree and domestic durability. Maharashtra’s leadership group will rely heavily on Bawane’s steady first-class credentials to steer the dressing room through the rigorous multi-day format.
Star Power Strengthens the Top Order
The presence of Shaw and Gaikwad provides Maharashtra with significant firepower at the top of the order. Shaw, who transitioned into the state setup to revitalise his domestic career, brings proven match-winning ability against the new ball.
Gaikwad adds composure and class, though his match-to-match availability will depend on potential national commitments and India ‘A’ assignments. Together with promising youngsters such as Arshin Kulkarni and Siddhesh Veer, the squad possesses enviable depth across batting positions.
Seasoned All-Rounders and Bowling Depth
Beyond the headline batting names, the inclusion of veteran Jalaj Saxena offers Maharashtra indispensable balance with both bat and ball. Saxena’s immense domestic experience across decades of red-ball cricket gives the team a reliable spin-bowling all-rounder who can adapt to changing pitch conditions.
The seam-bowling department features left-arm pacer Mukesh Choudhary and Pradeep Dadhe, supported by Rajneesh Gurbani. The spin department will be bolstered by slow left-arm orthodox bowler Vicky Ostwal and Hitesh Walunj, giving the side viable attacking options on turning tracks. Wicketkeeping duties will be shared between Saurabh Nawale and Mandar Bhandari.
The 16-member squad announced by the Maharashtra Cricket Association features a blend of youth and experience:
Ankeet Bawane (c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Prithvi Shaw, Arshin Kulkarni, Siddhesh Veer, Saurabh Nawale (wk), Mandar Bhandari (wk), Jalaj Saxena, Vicky Ostwal, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Mukesh Choudhary, Pradeep Dadhe, Hitesh Walunj, Siddharth Mhatre, Harshal Kate, Rajneesh Gurbani.
Group Context and Road Ahead
Maharashtra face a challenging schedule in the tournament’s group stages against formidable domestic opponents. After enduring mixed fortunes in recent first-class campaigns, the squad will be keen to convert their paper strength into knockout-stage qualification. The opening phase of the tournament will test how quickly the newer inclusions gel alongside the core local contingent under Bawane’s captaincy.