MLC 2025: Shubham Ranjane's "X-Factor" Performance Sparks Suryakumar Yadav's Throwback

Ranjane's "X-Factor" Evokes Nostalgia in Suryakumar Yadav

The Texas Super Kings' (TSK) all-rounder, Shubham Ranjane, has been turning heads with his performances in the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC). His impactful presence on the field, characterized by unwavering confidence and a relentless drive, has resonated with fans and former teammates alike.

Shubham Ranjane scored a 45-ball 70 in TSK's win over LA Knight Riders © Sportzpics

Ranjane's "X-factor", a blend of intensity and determination, hasn't gone unnoticed. Suryakumar Yadav, India's T20I captain and a former teammate of Ranjane's in Mumbai, took to Instagram to praise Ranjane's match-winning innings of 70 off 45 balls against the LA Knight Riders. Yadav's post highlighted the nostalgic memories of Ranjane's infectious energy and unwavering commitment.

"Even if I play gully cricket it is all intense. Whichever game I play, it is all about giving 200%. Whatever the situation, I should be there and get my team to win," Ranjane told Cricbuzz, emphasizing his game-changing attitude. "I want the ball to come to me. Even when I bowl, I want that breakthrough... if you need two sixes, I want to be the one to finish it. Not risking it to leave it for someone else."

This mindset of seizing the moment has been a constant throughout Ranjane's career. He recounts a Times Shield game in 2019, where he played during the day and then trialed for Rajasthan Royals in the evening. Tasked with chasing 60 runs in pairs alongside Shimron Hetmyer against a formidable bowling attack, Ranjane smashed 52 of those runs, securing the win with ease.

Despite a setback earlier this year when released by the Seattle Orcas, Ranjane's fortunes turned when the TSK promptly selected him as their number one pick in the MLC draft for \$80,000. This significant opportunity has allowed him to showcase his talent on a prominent stage.

"The preparations began quickly after the draft day. I was given a lot of clarity from day one on what my role was going to be. I never once got an impression I'd be a passenger on the squad... They gave me confidence and things started falling into place," Ranjane explained.

Having proven his mettle in domestic tournaments like the USPL, Ranjane now harbors ambitions of representing the USA national team. He aims to fill the role of a batting all-rounder with seam-up capabilities, a position the USA currently lacks. His diverse bowling arsenal and explosive batting could be invaluable assets for the USA in the upcoming T20 World Cup. And, of course, there's that "X-factor" that Suryakumar Yadav remembers so well.