‘Tremendous respect for Surya’ – Siddhesh Lad breaks silence on Suryakumar Yadav’s Ranji Trophy snub

Mumbai captain Siddhesh Lad addressed the exclusion of Suryakumar Yadav from the squad for their Ranji Trophy opening match against Chandigarh on October 11 at Wankhede Stadium. Lad stated he respects the selectors' decision and emphasized that players who prepare well for the season remain in contention. Selection official Rajesh Pawar noted that Suryakumar needs red-ball rhythm after an 18-month first-class absence, compounded by pre-season communication gaps.

In addition to Suryakumar's omission, Mumbai will be without Shardul Thakur for the opening fixture due to a hand injury sustained in the nets. Lad expressed that while Thakur's balance will be missed, the squad has established clear fitness standards to handle the pressure of chasing another championship.