SMAT 2025-26: Ishan Kishan named captain Jharkhand’s 16-member team

In a big development for Jharkhand cricket, the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) has announced a solid and balanced squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025-26. Ishan Kishan, a dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, has been named captain, providing both experience and explosive batting power to the team. Several renowned IPL players, including Kumar Kushagra, Robin Minz, and Anukul Roy, have also been selected, making Jharkhand one of the teams to watch this season.

The JSCA announced the squad earlier this week, with Ishan Kishan leading a strong bunch of young players and experienced veterans.

Kishan’s credentials speak for itself, having played 206 T20 matches. He has represented various IPL franchises, including the Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, delivering standout performances at the top level of franchise cricket.

With 5270 T20 runs at a strike rate of 134.20, Ishan remains one of India’s most explosive top-order batsmen. His recent record has also been encouraging; after a slow start in the first India A vs South Africa A ODI, he roared back with a fluent half-century in the series finale at the Niranjan Shah Cricket Stadium in Rajkot. His experience and attacking strategy will be critical for Jharkhand as they hope for a successful campaign.

Jharkhand’s roster, in addition to their captain, boasts several match-winning players. Kushagra and Minz are noted for their crisp striking and ability to alter momentum fast, making them great tools in the short game. Anukul’s consistent left-arm spin and useful lower-order hitting offer balance to the club.

Jharkhand has been slotted into Elite Group D, a highly competitive pool featuring Delhi, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Saurashtra, and Tripura. The team will open their campaign against Delhi on November 26, aiming to kickstart their season with a strong performance.

SMAT 2025-26: Jharkhand squad

Ishan Kishan (C/WK), Utkarsh Singh, Virat Singh, Kumar Kushagra (WK/VC), Robin Minz, Anukul Roy, Pankaj Kumar, Bala Krishna, Md Kounain Qureshi, Shubh Sharma, Amit Kumar, Manishi, Sushant Mishra, Vikas Singh, Saurabh Shekhar, Rajandeep Singh