Sanju Samson returns as Kerala announce 2025–26 Ranji Trophy squad

Following the announcement of the squads for the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season from Delhi and Bengal, Kerala also announced their 15-member squad. The most significant change is that Mohammed Azharuddeen has been named the new captain, taking over from Sachin Baby in that regard. Star batter Sanju Samson returns after sitting out last season, which simply adds to Kerala’s experience and strength.

Azharuddeen had a strong Ranji Trophy season last year and also led the South Zone team in the Duleep Trophy. He will now lead a team that balances young talent with experienced players. Domestic veteran Baba Aparajith joins Kerala as a guest player and will serve as vice-captain. Rohan S Kunnummal, one of Kerala’s most reliable openers, continues to hold his spot at the top of the order.

The team also features main players M D Nidheesh, Salman Nizar, and Vathsal Govind. Guest players Ankit Sharma and Baba Aparajith add to the experience on the field. The fact that Aparajith was appointed vice-captain with senior players such as Samson and Baby on the team speaks to the team's management's trust in his leadership ability.

Sanju Samson’s Return and Kerala’s Goals

Sanju Samson, who is not part of India’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia, is expected to play a few Ranji matches before joining the T20I team later in October. It is still unclear how many games he will feature in this season. His return will strengthen Kerala’s middle order and leadership on the field.

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Kerala enters the new season with high hopes after a historic run last year, reaching the Ranji Trophy final for the first time. They finished as runners-up after a drawn final against Vidarbha, who won on the first-innings lead. Kerala will kick off the 2025–26 season at home against Maharashtra on October 15 at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.

Kerala Squad: Mohammed Azharuddeen (C), Baba Aparajith (VC), Sanju Samson, Rohan S Kunnummal, Vathsal Govind Sharma, Akshay Chandran, Sachin Baby, Salman Nizar, Ankit Sharma, Nidheesh MD, Basil NP, Edhen Apple Tom, Ahammed Imran, Shoun Roger, Abhishek P Nai.