Shubham Ranjane's Emotional Homecoming for USA vs India T20 World Cup Clash
Since arriving in Mumbai with the USA cricket team for his maiden T20 World Cup appearance, former Mumbai all-rounder Shubham Ranjane has been experiencing a wave of nostalgia and "goosebumps" as he prepares to face tournament co-hosts India at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Saturday night.
Reconnecting with Cricket Roots and Cherished Bonds
The 31-year-old Ranjane, who moved to the United States in 2022, finds himself reliving old memories in the city where he grew up playing cricket. "Coming back to Mumbai always gives me the feeling of coming home, of nostalgia. I have played cricket all my life here, including maiden cricket. So, I am getting goosebumps right now," Ranjane revealed in an interview.
Among the most anticipated reunions is with India's T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav, whom Ranjane describes as his "best buddy, more like an elder brother." The two share a bond that extends beyond the cricket field. "Surya is my best buddy. He's more like a brother. We've spent a lot of time off the cricket field, too. We have many memories of us hanging out together. We used to go for drives and have some fun. So, it's not just about cricket; he's been like an elder brother to me. He is such an inspiration when you look up to him," Ranjane shared.
Cricket Legacy and Family Support
Ranjane comes from a distinguished cricketing family. His grandfather, Vasant Ranjane, represented India in seven Tests between 1958 and 1964, while his father, Subhash Ranjane, was a former Maharashtra fast bowler who played for India A. Shubham himself has played 15 first-class matches, scoring 595 runs and taking 12 wickets, including a five-wicket haul.
When he takes the field on Saturday, his entire family will be cheering from the stands. "My parents and my in-laws will be there. My wife is there with me too," he confirmed, adding a personal touch to the high-stakes encounter.
Memorable Wankhede Moments and Future Aspirations
The Wankhede Stadium holds special significance for Ranjane, who anticipates even more emotional moments during the match. "I will get even more goosebumps when we play at the Wankhede Stadium. There are a lot of memories I have of the Wankhede Stadium, and this time we will be playing on a bigger stage," he said.
One standout memory involves a Mushtaq Ali Trophy match against Bengal in 2018. "It was a must-win match for us to qualify for the knockouts. We needed four off the last ball, and I reverse scooped the ball and we won the match. I had taken three wickets also in that match. It's the best memory that I have of Wankhede," he recalled.
He also cherishes his performances in the Mumbai Premier League (now T20 Mumbai), where playing for Andheri Arcs, he took the wickets of Prithvi Shaw and Ajinkya Rahane while scoring 65 runs in the inaugural match, earning the Player of the Match award.
Facing Former Teammates and Embracing New Challenges
Ranjane is particularly excited about the prospect of playing against former Under-19 contemporaries, including Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel. "Jasprit and I were from the same Under-19 batch. We played against each other at the Under-19 level-he for Gujarat and I for Maharashtra. He, Axar Patel and I used to be together in National Cricket Academy camps. I have played with Bumrah and Axar for West Zone in inter-zonal tournaments as well. It will be exciting to play against them on Saturday," Ranjane expressed with enthusiasm.
Reflecting on his journey with the USA team, Ranjane acknowledged the unique emotions involved. "Playing for the USA is surely a prestigious thing, its a proud feeling. Its the biggest country (in the world). Playing on your 'home ground' where you have spent 10 years (of his life), in different colours. It will be a different feeling. Playing a platform and delivering your best," he added.
Team Confidence and Personal Preparation
In a recent warm-up match against India A at the DY Patil Stadium, Ranjane showcased his form by scoring 28 runs off 17 balls and taking 1-12 in two overs. He remains optimistic about the USA team's prospects. "Our team is well structured. All the players have been playing franchise cricket globally, so they have the confidence. Its a matter of time. On a given day, just have to be the best version of yourself," he concluded, highlighting the team's readiness for the challenge ahead.
