Saralnama
Senior batter Cheteshwar Pujara has confirmed his intention to participate in the upcoming Ranji Trophy season starting in October 2025, marking his return to competitive cricket since February 2025. The Saurashtra Cricket Association welcomed Pujara’s decision, highlighting the value of his experience. This announcement came shortly after Ajinkya Rahane stepped down as Mumbai’s captain but confirmed his commitment to playing the domestic season. Both players have been out of the Indian Test team since mid-2023, with team management focusing on younger talent. Pujara last played for India in June 2023 and has scored 7,195 runs in 103 Tests. He did not play in the 2025 County Championship, opting instead for commentary during India’s England tour. In the previous Ranji season, Pujara scored 402 runs in seven matches at an average of 40. He has expressed his ongoing hope to represent India again and is maintaining his fitness and form accordingly. (Updated 21 Aug 2025, 18:33 IST; source: link)