Vidarbha hit by key player exits ahead of 2025-26 season

Vidarbha’s build-up to the 2025–26 domestic season has just suffered a huge blow with the anticipated exodus of two of their star players—Karun Nair and Jitesh Sharma. They were two of the major players during Vidarbha's largely successful 2024–25 season, in which they were able to lift the Ranji Trophy, reach the finals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and qualify for the quarter-finals of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).

Karun Nair made a great recovery back after a disappointing stint with Karnataka to be with Vidarbha and had a great red-ball season, finishing with 863 runs from nine matches—fourth overall for the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season. His established consistency not only resurrected his domestic career but also earned him a testimonial opportunity within the India Test squad for the England series. Nair was prolific in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 779 runs, which crowned him as the highest scorer of the tournament. Rumors are that he is returning to Karnataka to finish his journey at home in his original state.

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Jitesh Sharma's Move to Baroda Signals New Chapter

Joining Nair, Jitesh Sharma, a veteran wicketkeeper-batter from Vidarbha, is also on the move, with reports suggesting he will be heading in the direction of Baroda. Jitesh led Vidarbha in the SMAT and played under Nair's captaincy in the Vijay Hazare Trophy; both exhibited versatility during the 2024–25 season and leadership for the team in tough situations. He further raised his profile during IPL 2025, playing for RCB and even captaining the side for stretches due to Rajat Patidar's unavailability.

Baroda, reportedly searching for a proven leader, could have just the player—someone that could not only hold the innings together but also manage the others while working within the responsibilities of a keeper and a leader—someone that could make the difference for the western side. While Jitesh's switch looks likely to occur in the coming days, his departure, along with that of Karun Nair leaving Vidarbha, brings another significant moment to a close for Vidarbha cricket.