Kerala has begun preparations for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2026, with the training camp commencing in Trivandrum ahead of the domestic T20 tournament.
India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson is likely to captain Kerala in the competition, while wicketkeeper-batter Vishnu Vinod is also expected to take on a leadership responsibility. Neither player has joined the camp yet, but both were expected to report from Monday.
Samson’s return would be a significant boost for Kerala, given his international experience and ability to change the complexion of a T20 game. Vishnu, meanwhile, has led Kerala in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season and brings considerable leadership experience.
Ahammed Imran would also be one to watch. The youngster scored 252 runs in five matches during the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, including a highest score of 86. His performances strengthened his credentials as an important batting option for the state.
Abdul Bazith, an all-rounder, and Akhil Scaria, a seam-bowling all-rounder, are also part of Kerala’s preparations as the team looks to build a balanced combination for the shortest format. MD Nidheesh is set to spearhead the attack, while Aditya Sarwate is expected to play a key part as well.
Abdul Bazith, Ahammed Imran and Akhil Scaria are among the players who have joined the camp, while a few other established names are expected to arrive shortly.
Kerala in Group C, Matches in Mullanpur
Kerala have been placed in Elite Group C for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2026-27, alongside Andhra, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Puducherry and Tripura.
The league-stage matches are scheduled to be played in Mullanpur, giving Kerala an opportunity to test themselves against a competitive group of domestic sides. The tournament begins on November 14, with the league stage running until November 26. The Super League is scheduled from November 30 to December 4, followed by the final on December 6.
