Guwahati: Defending champions Mumbai have named their 16-member squad for the upcoming must-win Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match against Meghalaya, set to begin on Thursday in Mumbai.
Notably, the squad will be without star Indian players Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shreyas Iyer, all of whom are unavailable due to their selection for the Indian ODI series against England, starting February 6.
Mumbai, who are coming off a disappointing five-wicket loss to Jammu and Kashmir last week, will have to make do without their prominent trio.
Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had been part of the team in the previous match at the BKC Ground, are following the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directive to play regular domestic cricket.
Shreyas Iyer, a key player for Mumbai in recent domestic campaigns, is also absent, as he prepares for international duties, including the upcoming Champions Trophy.
To fill the gaps, Mumbai has recalled Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Suryansh Shedge, and Atharva Ankolekar to the squad. Meanwhile, Karsh Kothari, who featured in the previous match against Jammu and Kashmir, has not been included in the squad.
ALSO READ: Assam: Rhino attack claims life 56-year-old man
Following the defeat to Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai’s chances of defending their title have become more challenging.
Led by Ajinkya Rahane, the team must now secure a comprehensive victory against Meghalaya, along with a bonus point, and rely on Baroda to defeat Jammu and Kashmir in their own home ground for a shot at qualification.
With high stakes in the upcoming match, all eyes will be on Mumbai’s performance as they aim to keep their title defense alive against Meghalaya.
