What is the impact of Jalaj Saxena's move to Maharashtra on Kerala's Ranji Trophy campaign?

Jalaj Saxena, Kerala's biggest match-winner, has joined rival team Maharashtra, which will force Kerala to rethink their strategy for the upcoming Ranji Trophy season opener.

How will Sanju Samson's return boost Kerala's chances in the Ranji Trophy?

The return of Sanju Samson, who missed last season's historic campaign, is a huge boost for Kerala as they aim to replicate their success in the new Ranji Trophy season.

What are the key strengths of the Maharashtra team that Kerala will have to overcome?

Maharashtra's lineup boasts explosive batters like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw, along with experienced seamers Mukesh Choudhary and Rajneesh Gurbani, who pose a significant threat to Kerala's bowlers.

Home / Sports / Kerala Faces Tough Test as Star Player Jalaj Saxena Joins Rival Maharashtra

Kerala Faces Tough Test as Star Player Jalaj Saxena Joins Rival Maharashtra

15 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Kerala reached Ranji Trophy final last season
Jalaj Saxena, Kerala's biggest match-winner, now plays for Maharashtra
Sanju Samson returns to boost Kerala's lineup

Kerala Faces Tough Test as Star Player Jalaj Saxena Joins Rival Maharashtra

As the new Ranji Trophy season is set to begin on October 15th, 2025, Kerala finds itself in a challenging position. Last season, the team punched above its weight to reach the maiden Ranji Trophy final, but now they are burdened with expectations of replicating that success.

The biggest obstacle for Kerala this time around is the loss of their star player, Jalaj Saxena, who has shifted allegiance and will be playing for Maharashtra in the season opener. Saxena was the driving force behind Kerala's success on their home pitches, but his presence on the opposing side will force the hosts to devise a different strategy.

Maharashtra's lineup boasts explosive batters like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw, along with captain Ankit Bawne, who pose a significant threat to Kerala's bowlers. The visitors also have experienced seamers in Mukesh Choudhary and Rajneesh Gurbani, who can capitalize on favorable conditions.