SMAT 2025-26: Shardul Thakur to Lead Mumbai; Suryakumar Yadav Set for 4 Group Matches

The selectors opted for continuity in leadership, given Shardul’s successful run in the Ranji Trophy this season.

Star batter Suryakumar Yadav will feature in four group-stage fixtures before joining the Indian team for the T20I series against South Africa. Alongside him, Shivam Dube strengthens the batting lineup, while experienced campaigners Ajinkya Rahane, Siddhesh Lad, and Sarfaraz Khan add depth.

Rahane, who scored 469 runs last season at an average of 58.62 and a strike rate of 164.56, remains a key figure. He has already amassed 209 runs in six innings in the current Ranji Trophy, including a highest score of 159 against Chhattisgarh.

Bowling & Young Talent

The bowling department features regulars Tushar Deshpande, Shams Mulani, and Tanush Kotian. Himanshu Singh, who filled in for Kotian in a couple of Ranji fixtures, misses out this time.

Among the youngsters, Musheer Khan, Ayush Mhatre, and Suryansh Shedge have been included. Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who has led the Mumbai Under-23 side this season, joins as wicketkeeper alongside Hardik Tamore.

Fixtures

Mumbai will begin their campaign against Railways on November 26, followed by matches against:

• Vidarbha (Nov 28)
• Andhra (Nov 30)
• Assam (Dec 2)
• Kerala (Dec 4)
• Chhattisgarh (Dec 6)
• Odisha (Dec 8)