Mohammed Shami’s brother Kaif, pacers Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar named in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy squad
Bengal has announced its squad for the first two matches of the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, with some notable inclusions and exclusions. While veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami is still recovering from an injury, his younger brother Kaif has been named in the squad. The team will also benefit from the return of experienced wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha, adding depth to the Anustup Majumdar-led side.
Shami Out, Kaif In Mohammed Shami, who is undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), will not feature in the initial matches of Bengal’s Ranji Trophy campaign. Although Shami is working on regaining full fitness, it was unlikely that he would be ready in time for Bengal’s opening match against Uttar Pradesh on October 11 in Lucknow. Instead, Kaif, his brother, has been included in the squad, stepping in to represent the family.
The Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar Boost Pacers Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar, two of Bengal’s most reliable bowlers, have also been named in the squad. Akash Deep, fresh off his recent performances for India in the Test series against Bangladesh, will be a key player in Bengal’s pace attack. Mukesh Kumar has been in outstanding form, having impressed in the Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup, where he consistently troubled opposition batsmen with his swing and pace. The duo’s form with the red-ball will be crucial as Bengal looks to make a strong start in the competition.
Bengal Squad for First Two Ranji Matches The squad features a mix of experience and youth, with skipper Anustup Majumdar leading a team full of potential. Alongside the returning Saha and promising pacers, Bengal will look to continue their strong domestic cricket presence.
Full Squad: Anustup Majumdar (C), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Sudip Kumar Gharami, Sudip Chatterjee, Wriddhiman Saha (WK), Shahbaz Ahmed, Abishek Porel (WK), Writtick Chatterjee, Avilin Ghosh, Shuvam Dey, Akash Deep, Mukesh Kumar, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal, Mohammad Kaif, Pradipta Pramanik, Aamir Gani, Yudhajit Guha, Rohit Kumar, Rishav Vivek
Bengal will be looking to kick off their campaign with a strong showing as they take on Uttar Pradesh in their opening game in Lucknow.