Mumbai Indians’ Suryakumar Yadav and Kolkata Knight Riders’ Ajinkya Rahane delivered crucial performances in the Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Haryana, scoring vital half-centuries ahead of IPL 2025.  

Both players, set to feature in the upcoming IPL season, showcased their class and resilience, strengthening their case for key roles in their respective franchises. While Mumbai Indians retained Suryakumar Yadav before the IPL auction, KKR secured Rahane, banking on his experience and form.   

Coming in at No. 4 with Mumbai struggling at 48/2, Rahane steadied the innings with an unbeaten 88 off 142 balls, laced with 10 fours. His composed knock was instrumental in reviving Mumbai after early setbacks, highlighting his ability to absorb pressure.  

Rahane’s domestic form has been impressive, as he was the top scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), followed by solid performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His latest Ranji Trophy exploits further solidify his case for a spot in KKR’s playing XI for IPL 2025.  

Suryakumar Yadav, who had been struggling for form in international cricket and failed in the first innings, found his rhythm with a fluent 70 off 86 balls. His innings included eight boundaries and two sixes, and he built a crucial 129-run stand with Rahane before getting out.  

This knock comes as a relief for both Yadav and Mumbai Indians, as they rely heavily on his explosive batting. If this performance marks the beginning of a return to form, MI will be hopeful of seeing their star batter back at his best in IPL 2025.  

At the end of day three, Mumbai stood at 278/4 in their second innings, leading Haryana by 292 runs. Rahane remains unbeaten, alongside all-rounder Shivam Dube, positioning Mumbai well for a strong finish.  

As IPL 2025 approaches, both Rahane and Yadav’s performances in domestic cricket indicate they are primed for the big stage, promising excitement for their respective teams.