Former Karnataka captain Manish Pandey has been included in the 34-member probables list for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, signaling a potential return to domestic T20 cricket after a significant absence. The tournament is scheduled to commence on November 14, offering the veteran batter a crucial platform to regain match sharpness. Notably, Pandey was omitted from the Vijay Hazare Trophy probables, indicating a strategic focus on the shorter format as he looks to re-establish his form ahead of future opportunities.
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Pandey’s last competitive appearance was in May during the Indian Premier League, where he played for the Kolkata Knight Riders against the Delhi Capitals. His exclusion from the state team since last season had raised questions about his availability, but this inclusion confirms his intent to remain active in domestic circuits. The move provides a vital pathway for Pandey to demonstrate his current capabilities in high-pressure T20 conditions, a format where his experience and finishing skills remain highly valued assets for any squad.
In a separate development related to domestic cricket, India Test opener Hanuma Vihari has withdrawn from Tripura’s Ranji Trophy campaign due to personal reasons. The 33-year-old, who recently moved from Andhra to Tripura, played in the season opener against Hyderabad but missed the subsequent two matches. Tripura coach Satrajit Lahiri confirmed the player’s unavailability following a heavy defeat to Karnataka in Mysuru, noting that the state association has sought BCCI permission to appoint a replacement for the remainder of the season.
Source: Yahoo Sports
