Mumbai’s cricket team is grappling with a significant setback ahead of their much-anticipated Ranji Trophy quarterfinal clash against Baroda. In a recent development, two of their key players, Shreyas Iyer and Shivam Dube, are confirmed to miss the match scheduled to commence on February 23 at Mumbai’s home ground.
Reports from ESPNCricinfo have indicated that the absence of these two Indian internationals is due to injury concerns. Shreyas Iyer is currently dealing with back spasms that have plagued him since the India vs England Test series, where he featured in an initial couple of matches before being omitted from the squad for the subsequent games. Although cleared for selection post the second Test, Iyer was sidelined, making way for Sarfaraz Khan in the following contest. Previously, back issues also led to Iyer sitting out the last season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which saw Nitish Rana take over his captaincy role for the Kolkata Knight Riders. His participation in the upcoming IPL hinges on his recovery and fitness clearance.
On the other hand, Shivam Dube, who has been delivering a stellar performance in the current Ranji Trophy season, is struggling with a side strain injury. During the competition, the 29-year-old all-rounder emerged as a linchpin for Mumbai, amassing two hundreds and equal numbers of fifties in just six innings. His prowess was on full display in his side’s last league game against Assam, where he notched up a quickfire century off 87 balls, followed by another commanding knock of 117 from 130 deliveries. Moreover, Dube’s contributions weren’t limited to batting alone. He also proved instrumental with the ball in hand, bowling a total of 67 overs across matches and claiming 12 wickets at a remarkable average of 12.08.
This double blow comes at a time when Mumbai, a colossal figure with 41 Ranji Trophy titles under their belt, is looking to extend their dominance in the contest. The absence of Iyer and Dube undeniably poses a significant challenge for skipper Ajinkya Rahane, who now faces the daunting task of steering his team through the quarterfinals without two of his mainstays.
With both Iyer and Dube ruled out, the Mumbai squad has other experienced and emerging players who will need to step up to fill the void. The roster includes seasoned campaigners like opener Prithvi Shaw and fast bowler Dhawal Kulkarni, alongside young talents such as Bhupen Lalwani, Musheer Khan, and Suryansh Shedge.
The bowling unit, despite missing Dube’s expertise, will bank on the services of players like Shardul Thakur, who brings his international experience into play, and left-arm spinner Shams Mulani. The spin department will also feature Tanush Kotian and Aditya Dhumal, providing variety and depth to the attack.
Wicketkeeper-batsmen Prasad Pawar and Hardik Tamore, along with Roystan Dias, who often shoulders the pace attack, complete the ensemble that will take on Baroda. Mumbai’s bench strength will undoubtedly be put to the test, and the city’s cricket fans are looking forward to how the team adapts and thrives in the absence of their marquee players.
As the countdown to the high-octane quarterfinal begins, the Mumbai cricket fraternity will eagerly await the emergence of potential heroes who can shoulder the responsibility and guide the team towards another glorious chapter in their illustrious Ranji Trophy history.
