Ranji Trophy | Focus on Saxena as Kerala meets Maharashtra in opener

Having punched above its weight to reach a maiden Ranji Trophy final last season, Kerala is now burdened with expectations of replicating that success when the new season unfurls on Wednesday.

But that may not be an easy task to accomplish when the biggest match-winner in Kerala’s cricketing history, Jalaj Saxena, has shifted allegiance and will be in the enemy camp for the season opener against Maharashtra at the Sports Hub, Greenfield Stadium.

All-rounder Jalaj Saxena will be donning Maharashtra colours.
| Photo Credit:
NIRMAL HARINDRAN

Saxena drew the template for Kerala’s big wins at home on bespoke pitches but his presence on the enemy lines will force a different strategy from the host this time around. Maharashtra’s explosive batters Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw along with captain Ankit Bawne carry a huge threat for Kerala bowlers. Mukesh Choudhary and Kerala’s old tormentor Rajneesh Gurbani can be more than a handful if conditions help seam bowling.

For Kerala, the presence of Sanju Samson will be a huge boost and he is determined to make his return memorable after missing out on the historic campaign last season.

Skipper Mohammed Azharuddeen, who replaced Sachin Baby as captain, Salman Nizar, B. Aparajith and Sachin Baby form an experienced middle-order which will be Kerala’s strength this season.

The home side will be hoping for vital contributions from two guest stars Aparajith, who has been elevated as vice-captain this season, and all-rounder Ankit Sharma, who has a difficult task of filling Saxena’s shoes.

The promising Eden Apple Tom will spearhead the bowling attack in the absence of Basil Thampi with N.P. Basil providing the support cast. It has been raining intermittently here for the last couple of days and with the forecast for more showers, both the teams will be hoping that weather doesn’t play spoilsport.