Ajinkya Rahane is set to return as the captain of the Mumbai cricket team for the Irani Cup 2024, following his successful leadership in the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy, where Mumbai secured their 42nd title.
The announcement was made by Sanjay Patil, Chairman of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), on August 4, 2024. This decision underscores Rahane’s pivotal role in Mumbai cricket, especially after a remarkable season.
Ajinkya Rahane’s Leadership and Achievements
Under Rahane’s captaincy, Mumbai triumphed in the Ranji Trophy by defeating Vidarbha, showcasing a strong team performance.
His leadership has been instrumental in fostering a winning culture within the squad. Patil emphasized that selecting Rahane as captain was a “no-brainer” given his experience and success, stating, “There is no question of who will be captain if Ajinkya is available”.
Preparations for the Irani Cup 2024
The Irani Cup, which will see Mumbai face the Rest of India, is scheduled from October 1 to 5, 2024. The MCA has been proactive in preparing the team for this prestigious match, conducting a two-week preparatory camp at the KSCA’s Alur facility near Bengaluru.
Rahane has been a strong advocate for fitness and skill development during this camp, encouraging players to focus on their game plans and fitness levels to ensure peak performance when the season begins.
Current Commitments and Squad Changes
While Rahane is currently in England participating in the One-Day Cup with Leicestershire, he will miss the Buchi Babu Tournament, where Sarfaraz Khan has been appointed as captain in his absence.
Sarfaraz is the only player in the Buchi Babu squad with Test experience, which adds depth to the leadership role. Shams Mulani, the vice-captain during the Ranji Trophy, is also unavailable for this tournament but is expected to return for the Irani Cup.
Irani Cup 2024 Key Players and Expectations
The upcoming Irani Cup is crucial for Mumbai as they aim to continue their dominance in Indian domestic cricket. With Rahane at the helm, the team is expected to leverage its strong squad, including potential contributions from ace opener Prithvi Shaw, who is currently playing in the One-Day Cup for Northamptonshire.