Mumbai, July 26:  Ruturaj Gaikwad has been appointed as the captain of Maharashtra for the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season, following Kedhar Jadhav’s retirement in June. This announcement comes after Gaikwad was notably absent from India’s squad for the Sri Lanka white-ball series.

The 27-year-old Gaikwad, who was sidelined by injury for most of the previous Ranji Trophy season and played only one match, will be stepping into a leadership role as Maharashtra aims to improve on last season’s performance. Jadhav led the team before his retirement, but with Gaikwad’s return, the team hopes to contend for their first Ranji Trophy title in 83 years.

Despite his recent exclusion from the Indian squad for the Sri Lanka series, Gaikwad’s appointment as captain provides a silver lining to his season. Gaikwad, who has previously captained Maharashtra in List A cricket, is expected to lead with renewed vigor and contribute significantly to the team’s success.

Maharashtra’s performance in the previous season suffered due to Gaikwad’s injury, and his return is anticipated to bolster the team’s chances of advancing past the group stage and achieving success in the prestigious domestic tournament.