Raina to lead ‘17-member’ UP side in Ranji Trophy

Once again, Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association has named ‘extra luggage’ in its Ranji Trophy squad for the new season, starting October 6. Suresh Raina would be leading the side in the first two matches.

Instead of picking up official 15-member team as per the directives of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, the UPCA has chosen 17 players. Interestingly, two selectors came to know about these ‘extra players’ in the side when it was announced on Wednesday.

“I don’t know anything officially, but we picked up official 15,” a selector told HT on condition of anonymity. “It’s nothing new as we carry extra players with team for the last many years.” The other selector, who also refused to be named, claimed that it should be taken in a positive manner. “What wrong in having 17 players instead of 15? It will give the captain options to make changes in the playing 11,” he said.

In fact, a close scrutiny of the side at least for the first two matches, suggest that barring energetic opening batsman Samarth Singh, all other faces are tried and tested. Speedster Imtiaz Ahmed too has staged a comeback in the side after being in isolation for two seasons.

Former youth World Cupper Akshdeep Nath is not considered as he would be leading the under-23 side, while batsman Himanshu Asnora is reportedly unfit as of now.

Former champions UP had a pathetic season last year as they couldn’t even make it to the knock-out rounds, but Suresh Raina and co had won the oneday inter-state tournament for the first time.