Mumbai will have to make do without a star all-rounder Shivam Dubey for their 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season opener against Jammu & Kashmir, starting from Wednesday, October 15 in Srinagar. Dube, who had been traveling with the team, had to fly back to Mumbai on Tuesday evening after suffering from back stiffness, reportedly caused by the cold weather conditions in the valley.
The decision to release Dube from the squad is a precautionary measure as the 30-year-old is also part of the Indian T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series in Australia, starting on October 29. According to a source in the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), the medical team has assessed Dube’s condition and advised rest to avoid any deterioration. The Mumbai camp is particularly optimistic that Dube will recover in time to join the Indian contingent for the tour of Australia.
“He was flying with the team but due to the cold weather he suffered from back stiffness. The team’s medical team advised him to rest so he flew back to Mumbai on Tuesday,” the source told The Indian Express.
Over the past two years, Dube has been one of Mumbai’s most impactful all-rounders. Despite his national commitments, Dube has committed himself to Mumbai’s red-ball setup, often featuring when his schedule allows. His absence now puts extra responsibility on Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian, who will have to carry double the workload.
Mumbai, led by Shardul Thakur, will be looking to start strong after missing out on a knockout berth last year. Ajinkya Rahane, who will continue as a senior professional after stepping down as captain, has been preparing since July and is expected to play a crucial role in anchoring the middle order.
Musheer Khan’s return after missing the previous season due to a neck injury is another big boost. His brother Sarfaraz Khan, who recently recovered from a quadriceps injury, is also participating again. Placed in Elite Group D alongside Delhi, Hyderabad, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Puducherry and J&K, Mumbai are expected to make a bounce back after their shock home defeat to Jammu & Kashmir last season.
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