Suryakumar Yadav’s inclusion in Mumbai’s squad for the upcoming 2025–26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has emerged as a significant development for both the player and the domestic giants. On Friday, November 21, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) announced a strong 17-member squad, with Shardul Thakur named captain and Suryakumar returning as a senior player after a mixed international season.

Mumbai strengthen title defence with seasoned stars

Mumbai, the defending champions of the 2024–25 edition, have opted for a blend of experience and young talent as they seek to retain their crown. The squad includes Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dube, Sarfaraz Khan, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Shams Mulani, and Tushar Deshpande among others, giving the side depth in both batting and bowling departments.

The 2025–26 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy begins on November 26, with Mumbai scheduled to play their league-stage matches at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The team management believes that the squad, packed with proven performers, is well-balanced for the high-intensity T20 format.

Suryakumar’s comeback: crucial for form and confidence

Suryakumar’s return to domestic T20 cricket could not have come at a more important time. After a stellar IPL season earlier in 2025 — where he blasted 717 runs at a strike rate of 167.91 — his performance in international T20s saw a dip. Across 15 T20I innings in 2025, he managed just 184 runs at an average of 15.33 and a strike rate of 127.77, well below his usual standards.

Coaches and selectors see his participation in the domestic tournament as a strategic move. With India gearing up for a packed white-ball calendar, including a five-match T20I series against South Africa from December 9, Suryakumar is expected to utilise the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy to fine-tune his rhythm and regain lost confidence.

Furthermore, his involvement is seen as early preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Domestic cricket has historically played a big role in helping top-tier Indian players rediscover form, and the MCA is confident that Suryakumar’s presence will add weight to their campaign while simultaneously helping him sharpen his game.

A leadership shift for Mumbai

Interestingly, despite being one of the senior-most players, Suryakumar has not been handed the captaincy. Instead, the responsibility has been placed on India pacer Shardul Thakur. The decision is seen as a move to ease pressure on Suryakumar and allow him to focus purely on his batting and preparation for international duties.

Ajinkya Rahane’s presence is also expected to provide leadership support. With a wealth of experience across formats, Rahane remains a vital figure in Mumbai cricket and continues to mentor several younger players rising through the ranks.

Young talents add strength to the squad

Alongside seasoned names, Mumbai have included promising talents such as Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge, Atharva Ankolekar, Irfan Umair and Angkrish Raghuvanshi. These youngsters have been in strong domestic form and are viewed as the future core of Mumbai cricket.

Mumbai selectors emphasised that the squad has been chosen keeping in mind the long domestic season ahead, where performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy often influence selections for the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Ranji Trophy.

Mumbai’s full squad for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025–26

Shardul Thakur (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Ayush Mhatre, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Siddhesh Lad, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Sairaj Patil, Musheer Khan, Suryansh Shedge, Atharva Ankolekar, Tanush Kotian, Shams Mulani, Tushar Deshpande, Irfan Umair, Hardik Tamore (wk)

Conclusion

Suryakumar Yadav’s return signals Mumbai’s intent to field their strongest possible side while offering their premier T20 batter the platform to rediscover form. With a robust squad, experienced leadership, and emerging talents, Mumbai enter the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy as favourites once again. All eyes will be on Suryakumar as he prepares for a crucial stretch in his international career, beginning with the South Africa series and leading towards the T20 World Cup.