Shreyas Iyer Makes Comeback in Mumbai Squad for Ranji Trophy Clash Against Andhra
Indian batsman Shreyas Iyer is slated to make a return to the Mumbai squad for their second-round clash against Andhra in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2023-24. The match, commencing on January 12 at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in BKC, marks Iyer’s comeback to Mumbai’s playing XI in the Ranji Trophy after a hiatus since the 2018-19 season.
Opportunity to Regain Form
The home game against Andhra provides Shreyas Iyer with an ideal opportunity to find his form ahead of the upcoming home Tests against England, starting on January 25 in Hyderabad. Iyer faced a challenging South Africa tour, managing scores of 31, 6, 0, and 4 not out. Notably, he was not included in India’s T20I squad for the series against Afghanistan earlier in the week.
The two Tests in South Africa marked Shreyas Iyer’s return to red-ball cricket after nearly nine months, following a back injury he sustained during the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia in February-March 2023. After recovering from surgery, Iyer played a significant role in India’s journey to the 2023 ODI World Cup final, accumulating 530 runs in 11 innings at an impressive average of 66.25.
In December, Iyer was appointed vice-captain for the last two T20Is against Australia at home, showcasing the team’s confidence in his leadership abilities. His inclusion in the Mumbai squad is expected to boost the team, especially with the absence of Sarfaraz Khan and Shivam Dube.
Mumbai’s Squad Dynamics
Mumbai will miss the services of Sarfaraz Khan, selected for India A against England Lions, and Shivam Dube, who is making a comeback to India’s T20I squad. Opener Prithvi Shaw, currently in rehab for a knee injury, remains unavailable, while Ajinkya Rahane, recovering from neck spasms, is likely to lead the team. Shams Mulani, the spin-bowling allrounder, had captained the side in Rahane’s absence during the previous season.
As Shreyas Iyer rejoins the Mumbai squad, all eyes will be on his performance in the Ranji Trophy encounter against Andhra. The match holds significance not only for Mumbai’s campaign but also for Iyer’s individual quest to regain top form in red-ball cricket.
