Captain Siddhesh Lad and his deputy Ayush Mhatre will lead an exciting young brigade in the quest for a record-extending 43rd Ranji Trophy title as Mumbai begins their campaign against Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium here on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters at a pre-season media briefing held at the Wankhede Stadium here, the two senior players discussed Mumbai's plans, tactics for the upcoming season, and their thoughts on shouldering the responsibility of taking forward one of the most prestigious legacies in Indian domestic cricket.

Siddharth Lad, Ayush Mhatre embrace pressure as Mumbai target another Ranji Trophy triumph

For Lad, leading Mumbai comes with its share of challenges, as the new captain seeks to rise to the occasion and fulfill the expectations of a city that has produced 42 Ranji Trophy titles.

“Since Mumbai has had such a rich history, 42 Ranji Trophy titles and some legendary players, there is always going to be pressure if you put on the Mumbai jersey. As a team, we want to embrace the pressure and not run away from it. We know the history of our team and the culture we carry, and we want to look forward to this season,” said Lad.

Mhatre, on the other hand, has been handed the chance to lead the team, having joined Mumbai at just 19. The young opener feels he has benefited from the support of the senior players.

“I believe being the vice-captain of Mumbai is a great responsibility and a big honor for me, given the reputation of the team and the Ranji Trophy. The support I have received from our team has been incredible, and I have not felt any pressure because of my position or age,” said Mhatre, an 19-year-old right-hander.

Mhatre added that he learned from the captain the importance of remaining calm under pressure, especially when making big decisions.

“Siddesh Lad has been tremendous in supporting me throughout, making me feel at ease within this group. I have also learned a lot from him about the game, specifically how to stay calm. We have all seen MS Dhoni's calmness at the crease, and one of the things I have learned from him is that anger will last five minutes, but actions taken in the heat of the moment will always be regretted. We need to remain composed and make sound judgments under pressure,” said. Mhatre.

Mumbai has a blend of experienced and hungry players, including three high-profile domestic stars: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, and Musheer Khan.

Lad, who has amassed over 5,600 runs for Mumbai in his domestic career, will be vital to the team's chances in 2026-27. His experience at the middle and lower orders will be invaluable to Mumbai during the grueling 2026-27 season as they attempt to defend their Ranji Trophy title.

Mhatre, on the other hand, has been sensational this season, scoring 660 runs in 13 First-Class innings. With his ability to bat at the top of the order, he is expected to play a more prominent role in the Mumbai innings.

With its wealth of experience, young players, and strong leadership, Mumbai looks to add another chapter to its incredible domestic history. They will face their first test when they host Jammu and Kashmir at the Wankhede in the opening match of the Ranji Trophy 2026-27.

Mumbai squad for first match of the Ranji Trophy 2026-27

Siddhesh Lad (Captain), Ayush Mhatre (Vice-Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Divyansh Saxena, Musheer Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Suved Parkar, Aakash Anand (wk), Hardik Tamore (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Atharva Ankolekar, Tushar Deshpande, Mohit Awasthi, Sylvester D'Souza, Onkar Tarmale.