Mumba, August 21, 2025 – In a major development before the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, experienced Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane has decided to resign as captain of the Mumbai cricket team. The 36-year-old Rahane has captained Mumbai for several seasons and played a huge role in the team’s domestic success, announcing his decision to resign earlier this week stating “the baton should be given to the next generation.”
After more than a decade of serving Mumbai cricket, he felt relieved. “I have always believed in putting the interests of the team first,” he said. “The time is right to let a younger leader take charge. It will also allow me to fully concentrate on my batting and enjoy my cricket.”
This comes on the heels of Mumbai’s 42nd Ranji Trophy title under Rahane’s captaincy last season. Despite all that he has done to make a mark, the one-time hope for India feels that transitions in captains are vital to further the cause of his teammates in the long run. “It is a huge responsibility leading any big team, and it has been my privilege to captain such a team. However, the future must belong to the younger brigade, and they should be provided an opportunity to grow,” he further said.
As per insiders from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), pace bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur is the most likely candidate to take on the captaincy. Thakur has played for India in all formats and has represented Mumbai for many years, making him a reliable pitch. He has leadership experience combined with a good understanding of the domestic circuit, which is important for a captain of a domestic team.
“Rahane has been a great leader and he has done a lot for Mumbai cricket, however the decision is a sign of maturity and responsibility, along with a future vision for leadership,” said an MCA official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. “Shardul has the respect of the dressing room and has leader type of qualities on multiple occasions.”
The announcement of the new captain should be made soon, as the 2025–26 domestic season is approaching, while Rahane will carry on as an active senior batter, and is there to support the younger players.
With Mumbai looking to defend their title, could this captaincy change mark a new era for them? It will be exciting for the fans to see how it unfolds, and if the capital change has any impact on their strong run of titles in Indian domestic cricket.
