Ruturaj Gaikwad to lead Maharashtra against Baroda in Ranji Trophy

Maharashtra has announced its squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group A clash against Baroda. The match is scheduled to take place on Thursday, January 23, at the Golf Club Ground in Nasik. Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain the side as they aim to secure a much-needed victory to climb the group standings.

Maharashtra has had a tough season so far, currently languishing in seventh place with just eight points. Despite securing a 10-wicket win against Meghalaya earlier in the tournament, they suffered defeats against Mumbai, Services, and Odisha. A draw against Jammu & Kashmir was their only other positive outcome.

Baroda, sitting comfortably at the top of the table with 27 points, will pose a formidable challenge for Maharashtra. However, the team will aim to use this match as a springboard to improve their performance ahead of their final group-stage game against Tripura on January 30 at Solapur's Indira Gandhi Stadium.

Ankit Bawne has been a standout performer for Maharashtra, scoring 361 runs in five matches at an impressive average of 51.57. His contributions include a century and two fifties, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings. Left-arm spinner Hitesh Walunj has also been in fine form, taking 22 wickets in five matches with two five-wicket hauls.

The team management will be hoping for collective contributions from their players, particularly from Gaikwad, Bawne, and Walunj. Baroda, known for their balanced lineup, will be a tough opponent, but Maharashtra is determined to put up a strong fight.