Photo via The Times of India

Ranji Trophy: Kerala eye fresh start as they open against Jharkhand

Kerala will look to make an immediate impact in the Ranji Trophy as they take on Jharkhand at Keenan Stadium in Jamshedpur, marking the venue’s return to the spotlight after a two-decade absence from international cricket. The team enters the season with a new leadership duo: captain Vishnu Vinod and coach Swapnil Asnodkar, who previously played for Goa.

Kerala’s strategy hinges on its experienced campaigners, particularly bowlers Jalaj Saxena and Aditya Sarwate, who are expected to thrive on a pitch that could turn sharply by Days 3 and 4. However, the spotlight may also shift to offspinner Vaisakh Chandran, who has spent the past seven months rehabilitating from a shoulder injury and refining his bowling action under former mentor Biju George.

Chandran made a standout Ranji debut against Jharkhand in 2022–23, claiming five wickets in the second innings to secure a victory, and his recent pre-season performance—where he took 11 wickets in Hyderabad—has reignited hopes of his return to form. Kerala’s management has urged younger players to contribute, with Chandran now poised to play a pivotal role if the dry conditions favor his spin bowling against the team that launched his first-class career.

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