The Ranji Trophy semifinals are set to ignite with a tantalizing clash between Mumbai and Tamil Nadu, two cricketing powerhouses with a rich history. While the absence of star players has garnered attention, the presence of several notable figures has elevated the anticipation for this marquee matchup.
Tamil Nadu, after a sluggish start to the season, has found its rhythm and received a significant boost with the addition of B. Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar. Sai Sudharsan, who recently completed rehabilitation for a back injury, joined the squad on Thursday, while Sundar arrived after being released from India's Test squad. The duo engaged in an extensive training session on Friday morning.
Mumbai, on the other hand, also had a lengthy practice session. Shreyas Iyer, who missed the quarterfinal against Baroda and was omitted from the BCCI's central contracts list, will be under scrutiny. The aggressive batter had a lengthy batting stint in the nets on Thursday but took it easy on Friday. Iyer will replace Suryansh Shedge in the Mumbai lineup.
Mumbai may consider bringing in wicketkeeper Prasad Pawar for opener Bhupen Lalwani. Hardik Tamore, despite his impressive batting performance in the quarterfinal, struggled behind the stumps, prompting Mumbai to consider bolstering its depth.
Tamil Nadu, besides the inclusion of Sai Sudharsan and Sundar, may also field pacer Kuldeep Sen in place of M. Mohammed. The green-looking surface at the Bandra-Kurla Complex facility could favor Sen's pace, complementing captain R. Sai Kishore's skillful left-arm spin.
Tags: #RanjiTrophy, #Mumbai, #TamilNadu, #ShreyasIyer, #WashingtonSundar
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