Siddhesh Lad has been named the captain of Mumbai for the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy campaign, taking over from Shardul Thakur. The Mumbai senior selection committee officially confirmed this decision on August 31, 2026. Lad, who finished the previous season as Mumbai’s leading run-scorer with 774 runs at an impressive average of 77.40, will now spearhead the side’s efforts to break a two-title drought.
Both players were consulted prior to the finalization of the appointment and received the change favorably. The transition is designed to maintain leadership continuity while alleviating the workload on Thakur. Lad brings prior experience to the permanent role, having served as interim captain last season during Thakur’s injury absence and standing in for six matches previously.
Lad voiced his immense pride at securing the full-season captaincy following his previous interim tenure. This appointment marks a significant milestone in his career with the franchise, which boasts a rich First-Class legacy.
“It’s a proud moment for me and the family. Having soaked in the Mumbai cricket culture and ethos, we all know how crucial the First Class tradition is. I have led Mumbai before, but to be appointed as the full season’s captain is a matter of pride,” Lad said as quoted by The Hindu.
Lad’s reaction to the captaincy appointment
Lad recognized the formidable depth of the squad he will now command. Mumbai features a roster of seasoned cricketers, including internationals, India-A regulars, and IPL performers. The new captain outlined his vision for the team’s immediate future and the challenges that lie ahead.
“A team like Mumbai — with so many senior players, be it internationals or India-A or IPL regulars — doesn’t really need to be captained. One just has to keep on reminding them about game situations at times. I just hope that we can cross the winning barrier this time around, something that the team fell short of in the last two seasons,” Lad said.
Thakur’s role in the team moving forward
Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Thakur’s significance within the team remains unchanged. Lad stressed the former captain’s continued vital role in Mumbai’s plans. Thakur is currently rehabilitating from a shoulder dislocation he sustained during the T20 Mumbai final in June.
“Shardul has always been and will remain an integral part and a match-winner in this team. He is a leader by example and has always been my sounding board,” Lad said.
Thakur provided an update on his recovery, signaling his preparedness for the upcoming campaign. Mumbai will take on Chandigarh in their Ranji Trophy opener on October 11.
“My rehab is well on course. I hope to be ready to go well in time before the season-opener,” Thakur said.
