Major League Cricket: Shubham Ranjane's "X-Factor" Resonates, Evokes Suryakumar Yadav's Praise OR MLC Standout Shubham Ranjane's Impactful Play Sparks Nostalgia for Suryakumar Yadav

The Major League Cricket (MLC) has unearthed a gem in Shubham Ranjane, an all-rounder whose impactful performances are turning heads.

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

From the moment Shubham Ranjane steps onto the field, his presence is undeniable. His confidence is evident in his every move, radiating a contagious energy that impacts every facet of the game. Whether he's batting, bowling, or covering ground, Ranjane commands attention. His passion for the game is palpable, driving him to seize every opportunity.

This same vibrant energy left a lasting impression during his time in the Mumbai dressing room. So much so that even five years after his departure, his former teammates remember him fondly. India's T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, recently took to Instagram to praise Ranjane's impressive 70-run innings off 45 balls in the MLC. Yadav's nostalgic post highlighted the "X factor" that has always defined Ranjane, suggesting that this is only the beginning of his success.

Ranjane himself emphasizes his 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. I want the ball to come to me. Even when I bowl, I want that breakthrough. It's all about that game changing attitude. Whatever the situation, if you need two sixes, I want to be the one to finish it. Not risking it to leave it for someone else."

This determination to dominate key moments is inherent to his character. In 2019, Ranjane showcased his mettle by playing a Times Shield game in the scorching Navi Mumbai heat, followed by a trial for Rajasthan Royals in the evening. Tasked with chasing 60 runs in pairs alongside Shimron Hetmyer against a formidable bowling attack, Ranjane responded with an explosive innings, scoring 52 of the required runs and securing victory with four balls to spare. This display of brilliance perfectly encapsulates the "X factor" that Suryakumar Yadav remembers so vividly.

While Ranjane has found success with the Texas Super Kings (TSK), his journey hasn't been without its setbacks. He was previously released by the Seattle Orcas just before the domestic draft, a surprising decision considering his status as a top seam-up all-rounder. However, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as TSK quickly recognized his potential and made him their number one pick in the draft for $80,000. This represents a significant opportunity for Ranjane, providing financial security and a platform to showcase his talents in American cricket.

Ranjane appreciates the support he has received from TSK: "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. I was always made to feel like an integral part of the unit. They gave me confidence and things started falling into place. The coaches were always in touch. The feedback mechanism was in place for every session. It gave me immense confidence."

Having established himself as a dominant force in domestic tournaments like the USPL, Ranjane harbors aspirations of representing the national team. He aims to fill the void of a batting all-rounder with seam-up capabilities, a role that the USA desperately needs. While his slower deliveries and clean ball-striking haven't been fully utilized in the MLC yet, they could prove invaluable for the USA in the upcoming T20 World Cup, especially in subcontinental conditions. And, of course, there's that undeniable "X factor" that Suryakumar Yadav so admires.