Mumbai A strong 17-man squad has been announced for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025-26Which includes many prominent names. The squad announced on Friday, November 21 reflects a mix of experience and emerging talent as the defending champions look to win another title.
Suryakumar Yadav is making a comeback in domestic T20 at a crucial juncture.
One of the biggest talking points is the return of Suryakumar Yadav For Mumbai’s domestic T20 setup. Although he enjoyed a sensational IPL season earlier this year – scoring 717 runs at a strike rate of 167.91 – his form in international T20s has dropped significantly. In 15 innings in 2025, the star batsman has scored only 184 runs at an average of 15.33.
Mumbai’s decision to include them is being seen as both a strategic and timely move. Five-match T20 series to be played against India South Africa Starting from December 9, the SMAT provides Suryakumar with an ideal platform to refresh and sharpen his game ahead of the busy white-ball calendar and the all-important T20 World Cup in 2026.
Importantly, Suryakumar will operate solely as a senior batsman, while the leadership responsibilities have been handed over to the all-rounder. Shardul Thakur,
The defending champions aim for another strong performance
Mumbai enter the 2025-26 edition as defending champions after lifting the trophy in spectacular fashion last season. Their campaign this year begins on November 26, with all the league stage matches scheduled at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.
The team has a strong mix of power-hitters, experienced campaigners and dynamic all-round options. Shivam DubeyWho has been in excellent ball-striking form across all formats, adding significant firepower to the middle order. Ajinkya Rahane While providing the experience at the top Sarfaraz Khan And Siddhesh Lad Strengthen the batting core.
Youth Brigade of Mumbai – including Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Musheer KhanAnd Suryansh Shedge – Brings freshness and versatility. Their domestic growth in recent seasons provides Mumbai with the depth needed to tackle the tough tournament schedule.
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A balanced team covering all bases
The selection committee has ensured that Mumbai is well equipped in all departments. Shardul led the fast attack Tushar DeshpandeHas both skill and experience. Meanwhile, spinners prefer Shams Mulani, Tanush KotianAnd Atharva Ankolekar Provide variety, control and wicket-taking ability in the middle overs.
Presence of two wicketkeepers – Raghuvanshi and Hardik Tamore – Adds flexibility to team combinations, allowing Mumbai to make adjustments depending on the match situation and opposition. Overall, the team looks well-equipped, competitive and ready for high-pressure T20 cricket.
Mumbai squad for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26: Shardul Thakur (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Ayush Mhatre, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wicketkeeper), Suryakumar Yadav, Siddhesh Lad, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dubey, Sairaj Patil, Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge, Atharva Ankolekar, Tanush Kotian, Shams Mullani, Tushar Deshpande, Irfan Umair, Hardik Tamore (wicketkeeper).
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