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‘Tremendous respect for Surya’ - Siddhesh Lad breaks silence on Suryakumar Yadav’s Ranji Trophy snub

Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy campaign for 2026-27 kicks off on October 11 at the Wankhede Stadium, with captain Siddhesh Lad leading the 42-time champions against Chandigarh. The squad announcement has sparked discussion after Suryakumar Yadav, the 2026 T20 World Cup-winning skipper, was left out of the opening match.

Mumbai’s selectors cited Yadav’s need to regain form after an 18-month absence from first-class cricket, with his last competitive appearance coming in June during the Mumbai T20 League. Communication issues during pre-season training further contributed to his exclusion, as Yadav missed sessions and only became available closer to the selection meeting.

Lad acknowledged the selectors’ decision while emphasizing respect for Yadav’s contributions to Mumbai and India’s cricket. Meanwhile, Shardul Thakur’s injury—sustained during nets practice—adds another challenge, as the all-rounder remains sidelined for at least the first game.

Mumbai’s focus has shifted to fitness and fielding standards, with Lad noting improved benchmarks from the off-season camp ahead of the historic campaign.

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Siddhesh Lad will ‘respect’ decision to omit Suryakumar Yadav from Mumbai Ranji squad