Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Bengal likely without Akash Deep; Mukesh Kumar and Wriddhiman expected to play | Exclusive

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Bengal's journey in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season starts with a tricky encounter against Uttar Pradesh, which starts on Friday (October 11) in Lucknow.

Bengal announced their squad for the first two matches which has some significant additions.

Wriddhiman Saha and Sudip Chatterjee, who switched their domestic allegiance to Tripura are back in the Bengal setup and both have been included in the squad. Along with them, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar are also named in the squad whereas Mohammed Shami is not fit enough for selection.

Ahead of Bengal's opening encounter on October 11, MyKhel understands that Wriddhiman Saha is set to feature in the first match. Bengal captain Anustup Majumdar told MyKhel that the former India wicketkeeper will be playing the first match this season in the Ranji Trophy.

"Wriddhiman Saha is going to play. They [Wriddhiman and Sudip] are back to play only. So we expect them to feature."

Akash Deep likely to miss for India Duty: Anustup Majumdar

Bengal's newly appointed captain Anustup Majumdar believes Mukesh Kumar will be available for the first Ranji match whereas Akash Deep may not be available as he is likely to be picked for the New Zealand Tests.

The Bengal captain, who has been a pillar of the team over the years, is only thinking step by step ahead of the new season.

"Everyone has their own goals. When you are trekking in the mountains, you don't think about the destination. Our next step is the UP match. Then, we need to assess the wickets. We need to assess the strength of the opponent. We need to assess the situation. We will try to do that. In this way, maybe we can take a few steps forward."

Bengal has been a force in domestic cricket over the years but they have failed to win the Ranji Trophy despite coming close multiple times. As the new season approaches, they will be hoping for a perfect start and set the tone early.