Yashasvi Jaiswal tries wicketkeeping in Mumbai ahead of Ranji opener

Yashasvi Jaiswal returned to Mumbai's Ranji Trophy set-up in Mumbai ahead of Sunday's season-opener against Chandigarh and has been pictured practising as a wicketkeeper during team sessions, Mumbai captain Siddhesh Lad said on Thursday.

The 24-year-old is primarily a batter; during his formative years he bowled occasional leg-spin and he has bowled six overs in international cricket. Despite the keeping experiment, his role for Mumbai is that of an experienced top-order batter.

Images of Jaiswal donning the big gloves during the team’s preparations at the Wankhede Stadium surfaced online, and Lad confirmed the change in role. “He is trying hard to start keeping wickets. That’s what I heard from him. He wants to keep wickets for Mumbai or for the Indian team [in the future]. That is what he is aiming for,” Lad said on Thursday.

Lad underlined Jaiswal's current state and short-term availability to the Mumbai side. “I met Yashasvi, and he looks to be in a great place right now. We are very happy to have him. He is available just for the first game if I am not wrong. “But someone like Yashasvi doesn’t only add to the performances, he adds value to the team with his experience. He told the selection committee that he wanted to come and play for Mumbai even before we asked him.”

Jaiswal’s involvement with Mumbai took on added significance after he reversed his decision to leave the association for Goa in April 2025; he has since been more involved in the team's affairs and has made himself available whenever not on international duty.

Jaiswal is expected to play only the first Ranji fixture before travelling to New Zealand, where he will turn out for India-A in three four-day matches against NZ-A ahead of the Test series.