Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Aayush Pandey, Ravichandran Smaran and Aryan Juyal are among the top emerging batters in going Ranji Trophy.
The Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season has seen some promising young batters stepping up with impactful performances. These players have not only racked up runs but have also showcased impeccable temperament, determination, and skill to thrive under pressure situations, making them exciting prospects for the future.
Here’s a look at the top five emerging batters of the season so far.
1. Aayush Pandey (Chhattisgarh)
Aayush Pandey has been a standout performer in the Ranji Trophy this season, scoring 744 runs in 7 matches at a stunning average of 67.63. He has recorded two centuries and three half-centuries, maintaining a strike rate of 53.06.
After scoring two fifties in previous games, Aayush, who began his journey with a dream ignited after watching the MS Dhoni-led India lift the ODI World Cup, scored his maiden first-class century against Tamil Nadu in the third round of the ingoing season.
He amassed 124 runs off just 184 balls that included 19 boundaries. The 21-year-old never allowed the two left-arm spinners—S. Ajith Ram and M. Siddharth—to settle in by stepping down and lofting them down the ground, showcasing his ability to score against spinners.
The southpaw’s consistency and ability to adapt to different conditions make him one of the most promising batters this season. He can bat for long periods and punish loose deliveries, making it a defining feature of his game. Read More: Top 5 emerging bowlers in Ranji Trophy 2024-25
2. Aryan Juyal (Uttar Pradesh)
Uttar Pradesh’s Aryan Juyal has been among the leading run-scorers, amassing 714 runs in seven matches. He has converted his starts into big scores that include a stunning double century. Despite an average of 79.33, his ability to score big knocks is evident, having notched up four centuries and one fifty.
Hailing from Moradabad, Aryan made headlines by becoming the part of India’s 2018 U-19 World Cup squad and has grown into a dependable batter. Known for his composure at the crease, Aryan’s technique allows him to adapt to different conditions seamlessly. His impressive performances in the UP T20 League earlier this year were a precursor to his strong showing in the Ranji Trophy.
3. Shaik Rasheed (Andhra Pradesh)
Shaik Rasheed, a right-handed batter from Andhra Pradesh, has demonstrated his ability to bat under pressure. Rasheed has been a dependable batter for Andhra Pradesh, accumulating 627 runs in 7 matches at a staggering average of 52.25.
The 20-year-old, who grabbed eyeballs after scoring 94 in the 2022 ICC U-19 World Cup semifinal against Australia, has played a crucial role in Andhra’s exceptional campaign this season. The right-hand batter’s consistency is reflected in his ability to cross the 50-run mark on multiple occasions, scoring two centuries and three fifties.
His potential was such that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) also didn’t hesitate to pick him in their 2023 squad. Read More: How India regulars fared in round 6 of Ranji Trophy 2024-25
4. Yash Rathod (Vidarbha)
Vidarbha’s Yash Rathod has had a breakthrough season, scoring 616 runs in 8 matches at an average of 47.38. The 23-year-old middle-order batter has been a vital cog in Vidarbha’s batting lineup, playing crucial knocks in challenging situations.
The southpaw batter has displayed a knack for converting starts into big scores, having registered three centuries and two half-centuries. His ability to play match-defining innings has been a key factor in Vidarbha’s campaign.
Rathod has already represented India in the Emerging Teams Asia Cup, and his ability to build innings and shift gears when needed makes him a promising talent. His 141-run knock in the previous Ranji Trophy semi-final against Madhya Pradesh was a testament to his skill and temperament. His century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy semi-final against Maharashtra also tells a lot about the character.
5. Ravichandran Smaran (Karnataka)
Ravichandran Smaran has been one of Karnataka’s most consistent performers this season, scoring 516 runs in 7 matches at an outstanding average of 64.50. With two centuries to his name, Smaran has shown that he can take control of an innings and play crucial knocks under pressure.
Ravichandran Smaran, who scored a hundred in Vijay Hazare Trophy final, gave another reminder of his immense talent with an unbeaten hundred for Karnataka against Haryana in their group stage match when the likes of Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul fell cheaply.
A naturally aggressive batter, Smaran’s style is reminiscent of Karnataka’s legacy of stroke-makers. If he continues his rich vein of form, he could soon find himself in the national reckoning.
These five batters have made a significant impact in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25, proving their mettle with remarkable performances. As the tournament progresses, their continued success could open doors for higher opportunities, possibly even a place in India’s domestic ‘A’ squads or the national team in the future. Read More: Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Top 5 Performers in Phase 1
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