Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 1: Veteran middle-order batter Siddhesh Lad has been appointed captain of Mumbai for the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, replacing all-rounder Shardul Thakur.

Thakur has been relieved of captaincy as part of workload management, with Lad set to lead the 42-time Ranji Trophy champions for the second consecutive season.

Thakur had taken over as Mumbai captain from Ajinkya Rahane for the 2025-26 season. Under his leadership, Mumbai reached the quarterfinals before their campaign came to an end.

The upcoming Ranji Trophy season will begin on October 11, with Mumbai scheduled to face Chandigarh in their opening match.

Lad’s appointment has been confirmed by a senior official of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).

The 34-year-old returned to the Mumbai setup in the 2024-25 season after spending a year with Goa. He enjoyed an outstanding campaign with the bat last season, scoring 774 runs in eight matches at an average of 77.40.

Lad’s tally included five centuries and one half-century, making him one of Mumbai’s key performers in the domestic season.

With his experience and consistent form, Lad will now take charge of the Mumbai side as they begin their campaign in pursuit of another Ranji Trophy title.