Rohit Sharma Struggles on Ranji Trophy Return, Falls for 28 in Second Innings Against J&K
Rohit Sharma’s much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy after nearly a decade failed to deliver the desired results, as the Mumbai batter managed only 28 runs in the second innings against Jammu & Kashmir at the Bandra-Kurla Complex Stadium in Mumbai. This came after a disappointing first innings where Sharma was dismissed for just three runs, contributing to Mumbai’s meager total of 120.
In the second innings, Sharma displayed brief glimpses of his famed batting prowess, hitting two fours and three sixes. He showed intent early on, making good use of a dropped catch by Umar Nazir, where he added 14 runs in the following over, including a towering six. However, his innings was cut short when he mistimed a shot off Yudhvir Singh’s bowling and was caught at short mid-wicket by Abid Mushtaq. Yudhvir Singh, a rising talent from Jammu & Kashmir and a new recruit for Rajasthan Royals, was instrumental in breaking Sharma’s rhythm.
The match was a crucial opportunity for Sharma to regain his form following a lean patch that began during the recent series against New Zealand and Australia. His struggles with the bat had led to his exclusion from the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney. India’s loss in that match, along with the series defeat, denied them a place in the World Test Championship final. As a result, the BCCI emphasized the importance of centrally contracted players participating in domestic cricket to regain form and confidence.
Sharma’s limited impact in the Ranji Trophy match reflects ongoing challenges. Despite some aggressive strokes, including clearing the boundary twice, Sharma failed to capitalize on his start. His dismissal underlined a broader struggle to convert opportunities into substantial innings. This inconsistency, coupled with recent international performances, has raised concerns about his form as India gears up for critical assignments.
Yudhvir Singh, the bowler who dismissed Sharma, has been making waves in domestic and T20 cricket. Initially playing for Hyderabad, Yudhvir switched to Jammu & Kashmir in 2021 and impressed with his all-around abilities. After stints with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, he joined the Rajasthan Royals in 2025, aiming to establish himself as a reliable performer. His dismissal of Sharma in the Ranji Trophy match highlights his potential as a bowler capable of taking crucial wickets under pressure.
The match also saw moments of drama for other players, with Ajinkya Rahane being called back from the pavilion after being declared out, further adding to the intensity. Meanwhile, Sharma’s performance in the Ranji Trophy has sparked discussions among fans and analysts, with many urging him to focus on improving his consistency to make a stronger impact on the field. On social media, reactions ranged from disappointment to outright criticism, reflecting the high expectations placed on the seasoned cricketer.
Sharma’s form has been a topic of discussion since his struggles in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he managed only 31 runs in three matches. This marked a significant dip for the Indian skipper, who has been a key player in both Test and limited-overs cricket. The Ranji Trophy was seen as an opportunity for Sharma to reset and regain his confidence ahead of upcoming challenges.
As Sharma works to regain his best form, the BCCI’s emphasis on domestic cricket for centrally contracted players underscores the importance of performances in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy. The decision reflects a broader strategy to ensure that players remain match-ready and contribute effectively at the international level.
In the context of Sharma’s career, his recent performances highlight the challenges faced by even the most accomplished players in sustaining form. While his struggles in the Ranji Trophy may not define his career, they serve as a reminder of the competitive nature of cricket and the constant need for players to adapt and evolve. For now, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Sharma responds to these setbacks and prepares for the challenges ahead.