Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Mumbai Eye Winning Start Against Chandigarh At Wankhede In Hunt For 43rd Title

Mumbai, the 42-time defending champions in the Ranji Trophy, aim to kick off their 2026-27 campaign on a winning note against Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium. The match, scheduled for Sunday, promises an intriguing contest between the veteran Mumbai team and the newly appointed coach Vinayak Samant, who takes charge just days before their first fixture.

Samant's appointment comes after Chandigarh's dismal 2025-26 season, where they won only one of their seven league matches. Mumbai, on the other hand, enter the new season with a stellar batting line-up and renewed determination to reclaim the title they last won in 2023-24. Siddhesh Lad will captain the side, with Ayush Mhatre as vice-captain.

The hosts have fielded a strong squad, including India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, Musheer Khan, Shams Mulani, and Tanush Kotian. Jaiswal's return significantly strengthens Mumbai's batting lineup, while Sarfaraz's experience and domestic record will be crucial. However, Mumbai will miss Shardul Thakur, who is injured, and Suryakumar Yadav, who has been left out due to his lack of recent red-ball match practice.

Lad acknowledged the expectations for Mumbai, emphasizing the importance of embracing the pressure associated with Mumbai's rich cricketing legacy rather than allowing it to impact their performance. Mhatre, who led India's U-19 team to the World Cup victory earlier this year, will also play a pivotal role at the top of the order.

For Chandigarh, the challenge is considerably greater. The visitors finished 2025-26 with one win, five losses, and a draw, exposing weaknesses they must address against stronger opposition. Their preparations were also disrupted by a late coaching change, with Vinayak Samant joining the squad on Thursday, Oct 8, just three days before the opening match.

Samant's familiarity with Mumbai's cricketing culture and Wankhede Stadium could prove beneficial as Chandigarh attempts to challenge the hosts. However, limited preparation time presents a significant obstacle, requiring Samant to quickly assess his players and establish a strategy.