Andhra’s rare quarterfinal appearance in the previous Ranji Trophy season hinged on Mumbai’s tied first innings against Maharashtra. Despite Andhra finishing above Mumbai in the overall standings, the southern team faces a formidable challenge against Ajinkya Rahane’s Mumbai in its own backyard.
Andhra, buoyed by earning the innings lead against last season’s finalist Bengal in its opening game, looks to replicate the performance against the 41-time champion Mumbai. The team, now led by Ricky Bhui after Hanuma Vihari stepped down as captain, will rely on the experienced Hanuma Vihari to lead its batting efforts.
Mumbai, led by captain Ajinkya Rahane, aims to build on Shreyas Iyer’s return to the Ranji Trophy after five years. Missing key players like Tushar Deshpande, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shivam Dube, Mumbai anticipates a strong comeback following its last year’s feat of a nine-wicket win against Andhra.
Since the tournament opener, both teams have integrated fresh faces and seasoned players eager to leave an impact. The Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy ground’s grass-covered pitch introduces an element of uncertainty. The match’s outcome hinges on how the overused surface responds, adding a strategic dimension to the game.
Squads:
Mumbai: Ajinkya Rahane (Capt.), Shreyas Iyer, Jay Bista, Bhupen Lalwani, Amogh Bhatkal, Suved Parkar, Prasad Pawar (wk), Hardik Tamore (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Atharva Ankolekar, Mohit Awasthi, Dhawal Kulkarni, Royston Dias, Sylvester Dsouza.
Andhra: Ricky Bhui (Capt., wk), C.R. Gnaneshwar, D.B. Prashanth, Shaik Rasheed, Hanuma Vihari, Ashwin Hebbar, K. Nithish Kumar Reddy, Shoaib Mohammed Khan, K. V. Sasikanth, A. Lalith Mohan, Prithvi Raj Yarra, Girinath Reddy, K. Maheep Kumar, U.M.S. Girinath, Manish Golamaru, P.V.S.N. Raju, K.N. Prudhvi Raj
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