Veteran Mumbai batter Ajinkya Rahane has decided to skip the remaining matches of the Ranji Trophy season. He informed the Mumbai Cricket Association about his unavailability for personal reasons.
Rahane's Decision and Mumbai's Schedule
The Mumbai team will play two more league phase matches. They face Hyderabad away from home between January 22 and 25. After that, they return to Mumbai for a home game against Delhi at the MCA-BKC ground from January 29 to February 1.
A source within the Mumbai Cricket Association confirmed the development. "We will pick the Mumbai team for their second stage league game. Rahane won't take part as he informed MCA that he won't be available for the remaining two red ball games," the source stated.
Rahane's Recent Form and Career
Ajinkya Rahane, aged 37, has played for Mumbai for the past two seasons. His performance this Ranji Trophy season has been ordinary. He scored only one century in four matches so far.
Rahane last played for the Indian national team in July 2023. He has been out of favour for national selection since then. He remains part of the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders and will feature in the upcoming season.
Captaincy Change and Past Success
Before the current season started, Rahane announced his decision to step down as Mumbai captain. He made the announcement on social media platform X. Rahane wrote that it was time to groom a younger player for the leadership role.
Shardul Thakur took over as the new captain of the Mumbai state side. Under Rahane's leadership, Mumbai achieved significant success. They won the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy title, ending a seven-year drought. The team also clinched the 2024-25 Irani Cup.
In his social media post, Rahane expressed his commitment to Mumbai cricket. "Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour. With a new domestic season ahead, I believe it's the right time to groom a new leader, and hence I've decided not to continue in the captaincy role," he posted.
He added, "I remain fully committed to giving my best as a player and will continue my journey with @MumbaiCricAssoc to help us win more trophies. Looking forward to the season."
Mumbai's Current Standing
Mumbai currently leads Group D in the Ranji Trophy points table. They have accumulated 24 points from five matches. Their record includes three wins and two draws.
The team selection for the Hyderabad match is scheduled for January 17. Mumbai will proceed with their final league matches without their experienced batter Ajinkya Rahane.
