Mumbai captaincy a matter of pride: Siddhesh Lad

For Siddhesh Lad, the last six weeks have brought two milestones that have little to do with runs scored or wickets taken. The birth of his son Shiva has been followed by the Mumbai captaincy, even as the senior batter continues to work his way back from an injury layoff.

Lad – who was Mumbai’s highest run-scorer in the Ranji Trophy last season – has been appointed the team’s captain for the forthcoming Ranji Trophy season, replacing Shardul Thakur. The change, according to chief selector Rajesh Pawar, is aimed at reducing the workload on Shardul, who remains an integral all-rounder in the side.

For Lad, who has previously led Mumbai as a stand-in captain in six matches, the opportunity to take charge for an entire season is a source of pride.

“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 told The Hindu on Tuesday.

“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’s relationship with Shardul should ensure that the captaincy transition does not become a dividing line. Shardul is a protege of Lad’s father Dinesh and has been an important sounding board for Siddhesh.

“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. “Our bond goes way beyond the designations, and I am sure he will continue to be a bedrock of the team.”

Lad’s immediate priority, however, is getting fit. His rehabilitation after a shoulder dislocation during the T20 Mumbai final in June is progressing well, and he hopes to be ready before Mumbai’s season-opener against Chandigarh.

“My rehab is well on course. I hope to be ready to go well in time before the season-opener,” he said.