Here’s how Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and others performed on the opening day of the sixth round of Ranji Trophy 2024-25.
After a turbulent year in international cricket, IndiaThe Test and ODI regulars made a long-awaited return to domestic cricket in the 6th round Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season.
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The move comes in the wake of heavy criticism following India’s shock home Test series New Zealand and their inconclusive effect in Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against Australia. The pressure was especially intense on senior players like Rohit SharmaYashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadejawho were expected to make a strong statement with their performances.
Adding intrigue, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently mandated that all Indian internationals not engaged in national duties must participate in domestic cricket to regain form and confidence. However, despite high expectations, the return of these stars proved to be disappointing, as they struggled to make an impact in their matches.
Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and others feature in Ranji Trophy 2024-25.
1. Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal fall cheaply for Mumbai
Rohit, who returned to Ranji cricket after almost a decade, faced immense scrutiny as he walked out to open the innings for Mumbai against Jammu and Kashmir at the Sharad Pawar Academy in Mumbai. However, the Indian skipper’s return turned out to be a poor blow as he was dismissed for just 3 runs off 19 balls. Rohit, who has scored just 31 runs in three Tests in Australia, was clearly out of touch, struggling with shot selection before simply catching the extra fielder.
Jaiswal, who impressed in the Australia series, also had a memorable outing. The young left-hander was trapped with his foot before the door Auqib Nabi for just 4 runs in the third over of the match. Mumbai’s opening duo faltered in the first six overs, leaving the defending champions in a precarious position.
Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma’s Ranji Trophy comeback for Mumbai ends briefly with 19 balls to spare against Jammu & Kashmir
2. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant disappointed
Gill, named vice-captain for the upcoming England ODI series i ICC Champions Trophy 2025he failed to meet his charges. Representation Punjab against Karnataka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Gill opened the innings alongside him Prabhsimran Singh but he only managed 4 runs off 8 deliveries before he bowled a delivery to the keeper Abhilash Shetty.
In Rajkot, Pant’s home return was equally disappointing. Representation Delhi against Saurashtraexplosionalready The wicketkeeper-batter lasted just 10 deliveries before being caught by Prerak Mankad Dharamendrasinh Jadeja for solitary running. Pant, who has been under scrutiny for his inconsistent performances, failed to make the most of this opportunity to silence the critics.
3. Ravindra Jadeja shows flashes of brilliance
Jadeja, who represented Saurashtra in their clash against Delhi at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, has had an eventful but inconsistent return to first-class cricket. The all-rounder got off to a shaky start, conceding nine runs in his opener against Delhi Yash Dhullwho took an aggressive approach. However, Jadeja quickly recovered, showing his signature control and accuracy with the ball.
He managed to pick up two crucial wickets, providing an insight into his skill and experience. While his bowling performance helped Saurashtra maintain some control, Jadeja’s overall impact was limited, highlighting that he is still working his way back to top form after recent international assignments. His return adds depth to Saurashtra’s line-up, but the all-rounder will need more consistency to dominate domestic cricket.
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