Ranji Trophy 2024-25 | Vidarbha Cricket Association Announces Squad

The Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) has named its 17-member squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy Elite Group B match against Andhra. The match will take place at the Civil Lines Stadium in Nagpur from October 11 to 14, 2024.

Experienced wicketkeeper-batsman Akshay Wadkar will captain the side, while talented all-rounder Atharva Taide has been appointed vice-captain. Vidarbha will look to capitalize on their home advantage and start their campaign on a winning note in the prestigious domestic tournament.

Vidarbha Ranji Trophy Squad for 2024-25:

1. Akshay Wadkar (Captain & WK)
2. Atharva Taide (Vice-Captain)
3. Aman Mokhade
4. Yash Rathod
5. Harsh Dubey
6. Akshay Karnewar
7. Yash Kadam
8. Akshay Wakhare
9. Aditya Thakare
10. Shubham Kapse
11. Nachiket Bhute
12. Siddhesh Wath (WK)
13. Praful Hinge
14. Danish Malewar
15. Umesh Yadav
16. Mandar Mahale
17. Karun Nair

Key Players to Watch:

• Akshay Wadkar, the captain, will lead from the front with his batting and wicketkeeping prowess. His leadership will be crucial for Vidarbha's success in the season.

• Atharva Taide, an exciting young talent and vice-captain, will play a key role in both batting and bowling, offering balance to the side.

• Umesh Yadav, the veteran India pacer, brings international experience to the bowling attack and will spearhead the team’s pace department.

• Karun Nair, a prominent name in Indian cricket, adds depth and stability to the middle order with his wealth of experience.

Fixtures and Outlook:

Vidarbha's first challenge will be a home game against Andhra, a team known for its competitive edge. The fixture, scheduled for October 11 to 14, marks the start of Vidarbha’s campaign in the Elite Group B of the Ranji Trophy. The team is looking forward to building on its previous performances and making a strong impact in the tournament.

Support Staff for Vidarbha:

• Coach: Usman Ghani
• Assistant Coach: Atul Ranade
• Strength & Conditioning Coach: Yuvraj Singh Dasondhi
• Physio: Nitin Khurana
• Video Analyst: Aniruddha Deshpande
• Masseur: Rajsingh Chandel
• Sidearm ball thrower: Yash Thorat
• Manager: Jitendra Dharbhe

Vidarbha will rely on its blend of experienced players and young talent to navigate the challenges of the upcoming Ranji Trophy season. With a solid squad in place, led by Wadkar and Taide, they aim to make a strong run in the tournament, beginning with the clash against Andhra.

Fans will be keenly watching Vidarbha’s performance in the opening match as they set their sights on a successful campaign in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season