Pujara Ranji Trophy 2025 comeback confirmed as Cheteshwar Pujara makes himself available, while Ajinkya Rahane quits as Mumbai captain. Full details here.
Pujara Ranji Trophy 2025: Cheteshwar Pujara Returns
Pujara Ranji Trophy 2025 participation has been confirmed, giving Saurashtra a massive boost for the new season. The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) confirmed that Cheteshwar Pujara has made himself available, a move that adds both stability and experience to their squad.
The 37-year-old, with 103 Test matches for India, scored 402 runs in seven games last season, averaging 40.2, including one century and a half-century. Although he has not featured for India since the World Test Championship final in June 2023, his presence in Ranji Trophy 2025 is crucial for Saurashtra’s campaign, which begins on October 15 against Karnataka.
Rahane Quits as Mumbai Captain Ahead of Ranji Trophy 2025
On the same day, Ajinkya Rahane announced his decision to step down as Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy captain. Although Rahane will continue playing, he emphasized the need for a younger leader.
“Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honour. With a new season ahead, I believe it’s the right time to groom a new leader,” Rahane said.
Rahane, also 37, led Mumbai in 70 matches across formats. Under his captaincy, Mumbai lifted their 42nd Ranji Trophy title in 2023-24 and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in 2022/23.
Impact of Pujara Ranji Trophy 2025 Return & Rahane’s Step Down
- Pujara Ranji Trophy 2025 return strengthens Saurashtra’s batting lineup.
- Rahane stepping down allows Mumbai to nurture new leadership while still benefiting from his batting.
- Both veterans remain deeply committed to domestic cricket, ensuring Ranji Trophy continues to produce future stars.
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