Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25: Shreyas Iyer named captain as Mumbai announce 17-man squad

Shreyas Iyer.
(Photo Source – Twitter/X)

Mumbai has announced its 17-member squad for the first three rounds of the upcoming 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy, leaving out two important players, Ajinkya Rahane and Prithvi Shaw.

The 2024 Vijay Hazare Trophy, the prestigious domestic 50-over competition, will see Mumbai being led by Shreyas Iyer, who recently guided the side to their second Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) Trophy. The squad, announced ahead of the group stage matches in Ahmedabad, features some of Mumbai’s star internationals like Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, and Shardul Thakur.

Prithvi Shaw dropped, No place for Ajinkya Rahane

Rahane, the highest run-scorer for Mumbai with 469 runs in the recently concluded SMAT, is a surprising omission. His performances, including a 98 in the semifinal against Baroda, have made him a crucial part of the team in recent months. Rahane’s omission is shocking, particularly given his form. Rahane, however, has requested a break from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for personal reasons, leading to his absence from the squad.

On the other hand, Shaw’s exclusion is due to his string of recent struggles with form and discipline. Although a part of Mumbai’s victorious Syed Mushtaq Ali campaign, Shaw’s contribution was far from impressive. With only 197 runs in 9 matches, including a disappointing final performance, Shaw’s inconsistency has been noted by selectors.

Additionally, Shaw’s recent fitness concerns and off-field controversies, also saw him being excluded from some games of the Ranji Trophy squad.

The squad, while missing key players, still consists of a mix of experience and youth. Mumbai will be counting on fresh young talents like Ayush Mhatre and Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who have been included in the squad based on their domestic performances.

Mumbai’s group-stage matches will take place in Ahmedabad, where they are set to face teams like Karnataka, Saurashtra, and Punjab in Group C. The team will open its campaign against Karnataka on December 21 at the Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground.

Mumbai Squad & Support Staff for Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25

Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Ayush Mahtre, Angriksh Raghuvanshi, Jay Bista, Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Siddhesh Lad, Hardik Tamore (Wicketkeeper), Prasad Pawar, Atharva Ankolekar, Tanush Kotian, Shardul Thakur, Royston Dias, Juned Khan, Harsh Tanna, Vinayak Bhoir

Prithvi Shaw expresses disappointment via Instagram story

Once touted as a young prodigy, Shaw is currently out of favour, even in the domestic circuit. The top-order batter was left shell shocked to see himself being excluded from the squad for the 50-over competition. The cricketer took to social media, and uploaded a screenshot of his stats in 50-over format in domestic cricket.

“Tell me God, what more do I have to see. If 65 innings, 3399 runs at an average of 55.7 with a strike rate of 126, I’m not good enough… but I will keep my faith in you, and hopefully, people believe in me still. cause I will come back for sure. OM SAI RAM,” he wrote on Instagram.

Also Check: Karun Nair named captain as Vidarbha announce 17-man squad

Mumbai Schedule for Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.