Siddhesh Lad
Srinagar: When Siddhesh Lad made his return to the Mumbai cricket squad last season, the message was straightforward: his opportunities would arise only when players on national duty were unavailable. The 33-year-old veteran gladly accepted this condition. For many, earning a spot back in the Mumbai dressing room, which often prioritizes young talent, would be a blessing in itself.
After playing for Goa in 2022-23, Lad took a break and focused on Mumbai’s local tournaments in 2023-24, where his impressive scoring ensured his eligibility and eventual return to the Mumbai squad last season.
His comeback was nothing short of spectacular. He emerged as Mumbai’s leading run-scorer with 602 runs in just seven matches, initially batting at numbers five and six before moving up to the crucial third spot.
Leading up to Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy opener against Jammu & Kashmir at the Sher-I-Kashmir Stadium, Lad’s place in the playing XI remained uncertain. However, this didn’t deter him. He diligently stuck to his routine for three days, dedicating himself to fitness and extensive net practice.
When his chance finally came on Wednesday, he seized it, picking up right where he left off last season. His defiant 116 runs off 156 balls anchored Mumbai’s innings, proving the selectors’ faith was well-placed.
Recognizing his immense value, the right-handed batsman was assigned the critical No. 4 position, a role he embraces and credits to the clear vision provided by coach Omkar Salvi and captain Shardul Thakur.
“My role in the team is clear,” Lad stated, acknowledging a slight disappointment at not being able to bat through the day. “I need to steady the innings whenever I come in, and depending on the match situation, spend time at the crease, just like I did today. The coach and captain have given me precise instructions, and I’m focused on delivering.”
He continued, “Having scored well last season, I aimed to bring that momentum into this one. I want to thank my entire support staff, especially our head coach Omkar Salvi, and dedicate this century to them. Their dedication to my fitness and game over the past three to four months has been invaluable.”
Even after his stellar performance last season, Lad’s inclusion in the opening match was not guaranteed. However, a timely injury to Shivam Dube opened the door for his selection.
Lad remains philosophical about potentially missing games. “I’m perfectly fine with that possibility,” he remarked. He elaborated, “At 33, I’m happy to step aside if it means a promising youngster gets an opportunity. My commitment is to the team; I’ll be there whenever they need me.”
As his career progresses, Lad’s primary focus has shifted from personal milestones to making impactful contributions that benefit the team. “My current ambition isn’t just to accumulate 1000 runs,” he explained. “Instead, I want to deliver critical innings that help us clinch the Ranji Trophy. That achievement would bring me far greater satisfaction.”