Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Top five contenders who can lift the Ranji Trophy this season. Mumbai Cricket Association lift the Ranji Trophy for record 42nd time last year.
As the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season approaches, several teams emerge as strong contenders for India's premier domestic cricket title. Based on their recent performances and the key players in their squads, here’s an in-depth look at Mumbai, Vidarbha, Madhya Pradesh, Saurashtra, and Bengal.
Star Studded Mumbai
Mumbai, the 42-time champions, have a storied history in Indian domestic cricket. Their exceptional trophy triumph in the 2023-24 season underlined their enduring prowess. Ajinkya Rahane, the veteran batter and former India Test captain, provides invaluable leadership and experience. Last season, Rahane had a disappointing outing in terms of batting, but the experience of leading India’s cricket team to the historic series win against Australia in Australia demonstrates his critical role in the team.
Prithvi Shaw, known for his explosive batting, amassed 451 runs at an average of 83.52, consistently setting a strong foundation at the top. Shardul Thakur, an all-rounder with international experience, was pivotal with both bat and ball, scoring a couple of half-centuries and contributing crucial lower order runs and around 10 wickets in the knockout matches.
Mumbai look solid with players like the Khan brothers, (Sarfaraz Khan and Musheer Khan) Shreyas Iyer, Prithvi Shaw, Tushar Deshpande, and Tanush Kotian marking their presence in the XI on a regular basis. Integrating young talent and striving for consistency will be crucial for them in the upcoming season.
Formidable Vidarbha
Vidarbha have established themselves as a formidable force in domestic cricket with their disciplined performances and back-to-back titles in recent years. They reached the final in the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy, underscoring their competitive edge. Ajay Wadkar, their experienced batter, scored 637 runs at an average of 58.39, providing stability to the team. Umesh Yadav, their pace spearhead, took 29 wickets, leading the bowling attack with his international experience. Yash Thakur emerged as a key player, taking 27 wickets, adding depth to the bowling unit.
Despite these strengths, Vidarbha's batting depth remains a concern, with a heavy reliance on a few key players for substantial runs. Building on their momentum and developing young players under experienced mentors will be key opportunities for them this season.
Emerging Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh have been making steady progress in domestic cricket, highlighted by their semi-final appearance last season. Venkatesh Iyer, a dynamic all-rounder, scored 683 runs and took 23 wickets, showcasing his dual threat. Fast bowler Avesh Khan was instrumental, claiming 47 wickets at an average of 19.25. Their strengths lie in their all-round capabilities and strong pace attack.
However, their relative inexperience in high-pressure knockout games and dependence on a few stars are challenges they need to address. Showcasing and developing emerging young talents while pushing for the title will be crucial for Madhya Pradesh.
Read More: Ranji Trophy 2023-24, SF 1: Vidarbha beat MP by 62 runs; set up final clash against Mumbai
Experienced Saurashtra
Saurashtra, the former champions, have built a reputation for resilience and tactical acumen. Saurashtra’s 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season was anchored by seasoned Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored 829 runs in a mere 13 innings. Pujara’s technique and patience provide a solid start, crucial for their top order.
Jaydev Unadkat, their experienced bowler will be leading their attack with remarkable consistency. Despite their success, Saurashtra's reliance on Pujara and Unadkat, along with inconsistent middle-order contributions, are areas of concern. Aiming to re-clinch their title and integrating younger players into the squad will be essential for them.
Bengal – Backed by Pace
Bengal, under the leadership of Manoj Tiwary, failed to make the cut for the knockout stage in the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy and will be more eager to end their long title drought this time around. Their formidable pace attack will strengthen their chances with Mukesh Kumar and Mohammed Shami likely to participate in the tournament.
Wriddhiman Saha, the experienced wicketkeeper-batter, scored crucial runs down the order, providing stability and reliability. However, Bengal's occasional batting collapses and heavy reliance on their bowling attack are challenges they must overcome. With a change in captaincy with Manoj Tiwary announcing his retirement, Bengal has a lot to do before the start of the tournament and create a strong opportunity to end their 34-year title drought and build on their recent momentum.
The 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season promises to be highly competitive, with Mumbai, Vidarbha, Madhya Pradesh, Saurashtra, and Bengal each bringing unique strengths and key players to the fore. Addressing their weaknesses and leveraging their strengths will be crucial as these teams vie for the coveted Ranji Trophy.
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