Mumbai will be without star all-rounder Shivam Dube for their Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season opener against Jammu & Kashmir, starting Wednesday, October 15, in Srinagar. Dube, who had travelled with the team, was forced to fly back to Mumbai on Tuesday evening after experiencing back stiffness, reportedly triggered by the cold weather conditions in the valley.
The decision to release Dube from the squad is set to be precautionary, given that the 30-year-old is also part of India’s T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series in Australia, beginning October 29. According to a source in the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), the medical team evaluated Dube’s condition and advised rest to prevent any aggravation. Notably, the Mumbai camp is optimistic that Dube will recover in time to join the Indian contingent for the Australia tour.
“He flew with the team but due to cold weather, he suffered back stiffness. The team medical team advised him to rest, so he flew back to Mumbai on Tuesday,” the source informed 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 been committed to Mumbai’s red-ball setup, often featuring whenever his schedule permits. His absence now places added responsibility on Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian, who will have to shoulder the dual workload.
Mumbai, led by Shardul Thakur, is looking to start strong after missing out on a knockout spot last year. Ajinkya Rahane, who continues as a senior pro after stepping down as captain, has been preparing since July and is expected to play a crucial role in anchoring the middle order.
The return of Musheer Khan, after missing the previous season due to a neck injury, is another major boost. His brother Sarfaraz Khan, who recently recovered from a quadriceps injury, is also back in the mix. Placed in Elite Group D alongside Delhi, Hyderabad, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Puducherry, and J&K, Mumbai is expected to make a bounce back after their shock home defeat to Jammu & Kashmir last season.
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