Shardul Thakur to lead Mumbai after Ajinkya Rahane steps down
What's the story
Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur is set to lead the Mumbai Ranji Trophy side for the upcoming season, as per a report by The Indian Express. This comes after Ajinkya Rahane announced his decision to step down from the role on Thursday. However, Rahane will continue to play for the team. Notably, Thakur will also lead West Zone in 2025 Duleep Trophy, starting August 28.
Leadership transition
Captaining Mumbai has been an absolute honor: Rahane
Rahane took to social media to announce his decision. He wrote, "Captaining and winning championships with the Mumbai team has been an absolute honor. With a new domestic season ahead, I believe it's the right time to groom a new leader." He added that he will continue his journey with Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) as a player in order to help them win more trophies.
Captaincy achievements
Rahane led Mumbai to multiple domestic titles
Under Rahane's captaincy, Mumbai ended a seven-year wait for the Ranji Trophy by clinching the title in the 2023/24 season. The team also secured the Irani Trophy in the 2024/25 campaign. Despite stepping down as captain, Rahane made it clear that he has no intentions of retiring and will continue to serve Mumbai as a batsman across formats. In 201 First-Class matches, he owns 14,000 runs at an average of 45.16 (41 tons).
Captaincy role
Thakur's appointment as captain was anticipated
Thakur's appointment as Mumbai's captain was expected, especially after he was named the West Zone captain for the Duleep Trophy. The star all-rounder has been instrumental in Mumbai's Ranji success over the years, contributing with both wickets and lower-order runs. In the last Ranji Trophy season, Thakur scored 505 runs and picked 35 wickets for Mumbai in nine matches. Overall, he owns 302 wickets and 2,618 runs in red-ball cricket.