![Yashasvi Jaiswal [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1739682737604_Jaiswal_898.jpg?type=mq)
Yashasvi Jaiswal [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]
Mumbai’s quest for a record-extending 42nd Ranji Trophy title has been jolted by the absence of young batting prodigy Yashasvi Jaiswal, ruled out of the semi-final against Vidarbha due to ankle pain. Mumbai will miss Jaiswal’s explosive flair at the top, a void that tests their depth ahead of the high-stakes clash.
The Jaiswal Gap in Mumbai’s Armor
The 23-year-old opener, fresh off the India vs England ODI series, was initially named in Mumbai’s squad but withdrew after failing to recover in time. His injury leaves a glaring hole in a lineup that leaned heavily on his aggressive starts as Mumbai is set to face Vidarbha from February 17–21 in Nagpur.
Jaiswal's absence will now put pressure on skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Suryakumar Yadav to anchor an otherwise star-studded batting unit featuring Shivam Dube and all-rounder Shardul Thakur.
It is worth mentioning that Yashasvi Jaiswal has been a standout performer in First-Class cricket, amassing 3,712 runs in 36 matches at a remarkable average of 60.85. His aggressive yet composed approach is reflected in his strike rate of 66.21 across 5,606 deliveries. With 13 centuries and 12 half-centuries to his name, Jaiswal has demonstrated his ability to play long, impactful innings.
The Stage Is Set For The Semi-Final
Vidarbha, topping Group A with six wins in seven matches, enters the semi-final as the tournament’s dark horse. Led by Karun Nair and bolstered by Umesh Yadav’s pace, they’ve thrived on home turf. Atharva Taide and Dhruv Shorey have been pillars of their batting, while spinner Aditya Sarwate looms as a threat on Nagpur’s spin-friendly track.
Mumbai, however, counters with Shams Mulani’s left-arm spin and the experience of Rahane, whose leadership will be critical in navigating the pressure.
 "Soumyajit Dutta")
