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Revealed: Why Suryakumar Yadav and Shardul Thakur were excluded from Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy squad

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has unveiled its Ranji Trophy squad for the 2026-27 season, sparking surprise with the omission of two high-profile Indian cricketers: Suryakumar Yadav and Shardul Thakur. According to MCA senior men’s chief selector Rajesh Pawar, the decision stems from a strategic push to nurture younger talent, with Ayush Mhatre elevated to a key role as vice-captain under new captain Siddhesh Lad.

Yadav, despite his availability and potential return to the Indian national team, was left out due to his prolonged absence from red-ball cricket, with Pawar noting he will only re-enter selection contention after playing in first-class matches again. Meanwhile, Thakur’s exclusion is attributed to a fracture in his right middle finger, which could sideline him for the first two fixtures of the campaign, though his status may be reassessed afterward.

The squad’s initial lineup, announced on October 5, reflects a calculated gamble on youth development, though experienced hands like Yadav and Thakur remain in the fold for future consideration.

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