.jpg?type=hq)
Shardul Thakur - (Source: AFP)
In a significant development, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has appointed a new captain for Mumbai’s upcoming Ranji Trophy campaign. Mumbai selector Rajesh Pawar confirmed that Shardul Thakur will remain an integral part of the team but won’t lead the team in the upcoming domestic tournament.
The 92nd edition of the Ranji Trophy starts on October 11, with Mumbai taking on Chandigarh. Notably, it is the 2nd straight year Mumbai has named a new Ranji Trophy captain, with Shardul Thakur being replaced after just a year.
Siddhesh Lad Replaces Shardul Thakur As Mumbai Captain
The MCA has decided to go ahead with Siddhesh Lad as Mumbai’s captain for Ranji Trophy 2026-27 season. The 34-year-old has been named captain because the selectors want to manage Shardul Thakur’s workload, who is expected to bowl maximum overs and contribute with the bat as well.
"Yes, we've decided to appoint Siddhesh Lad as our captain for the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season. He did well last season and is experienced. Shardul is our match-winner. There is already too much workload on him as he's expected to bowl a lot of overs, take wickets and contribute with the bat as well," MCA chief selector Rajesh Pawar remarked speaking to TOI.
"We don't want to burden him with the responsibility of captaincy. Plus, we'll have to manage his workload. There are 10 games in the Ranji Trophy, and he may have to rest for the odd match," Pawar added.
The selector stated that the two players were kept in the loop regarding the change, and the transition happened smoothly with proper communication.
Who Is Siddhesh Lad, Mumbai's New Captaincy?
Siddhesh has an impressive First-Class career and has been associated with Mumbai for a long time. The 34-year-old has 5623 runs in 135 innings, averaging 44.27. Lad has also scored 15 centuries and 30 half-centuries.
Talking about his previous season, the right-handed batter amassed a whopping 774 runs in 11 innings, averaging 77.40. Siddhesh Lad scored five centuries, and four of those came back-to-back.
Also Read: Suryakumar Yadav Ready To Become Captain Again
Even in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25, Lad scored 602 runs in 12 innings, averaging 60.20. Therefore, the 34-year-old has proved his mettle as a batter and has been presented a chance to lead his side in the Ranji Trophy.
Mumbai’s Domestic Record Under Shardul Thakur
Mumbai are the most successful side in Ranji Trophy history. The legendary team has won the prestigious title 42 times. Mumbai’s last title win came in the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 season under Ajinkya Rahane.
However, for Ranji Trophy 2025-26, Shardul Thakur replaced Ajinkya Rahane. Under his leadership, Mumbai topped their group with no defeats but crashed out of the league after a loss against Karnataka in the quarter-final.
Overall, under Shardul Thakur as a captain for Mumbai in Ranji Trophy, the team has won 4 matches, lost one and drawn 3 games.
Also Read: India-Born Player Named In Australia Squad vs India In Historical Move
