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Suryakumar Yadav keeps Test comeback hopes alive, announces Ranji Trophy return

Veteran Mumbai batsman Suryakumar Yadav has reignited hopes of a Test cricket comeback by confirming his return to first-class action for the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season. The 36-year-old, who last played competitive cricket at the end of IPL 2026, has formally agreed to join Mumbai’s Elite Group D campaign, with his debut scheduled against Chandigarh at Wankhede Stadium on October 11.

Though Yadav’s Test career remains limited to a single match—an eight-run debut against Australia in Nagpur in February 2023—his first-class pedigree is undeniable, boasting 5,758 runs across 86 matches at an average of 42.34, including 14 centuries and 30 half-centuries. His last Ranji appearance came in February 2025, and his return now offers a chance to rebuild form ahead of India’s long-term plans, though his recent struggles—including a 20.76 IPL average in 2026 and a drop from India’s T20I captaincy in June—will test his ability to regain momentum in the longer format.

With the BCCI prioritizing youth for future tournaments, Yadav’s domestic performances will be critical in proving he can still contribute meaningfully in red-ball cricket.

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