You know how people always talk about Mumbai cricket? Like it's the only place in Maharashtra where stars are born? Well, that’s old news. This year, 2025, there’s a different energy — one that’s coming from places like Pune, Kolhapur, Nashik... even the smaller towns. It’s not loud yet, but it’s growing. Maharashtra is finally growing into a cricketing powerhouse, and yeah, some of these players… they’re ready.
Let’s talk about ‘em — not just the names you already know, but the ones you’re about to hear a lot more of.
Read Also: Yuvraj Singh: Punjab's Pride and India’s Cricketing Warrior
Ruturaj Gaikwad – The Silent Leader
He’s not the type to pump his fists or scream after a boundary. Ruturaj, he just bats. Calmly. Cleanly. And dangerously. He’s from Pune, and at this point, he’s a household name, especially if you follow Chennai Super Kings.
But this year’s important for him. India’s got a packed white-ball calendar, and Ruturaj isn’t just fighting for a spot — he’s proving he can anchor, accelerate, and maybe even lead. They say he’s being looked at for vice-captain duties. Let’s see.
Rahul Tripathi – Always on the Edge
Some players always look like they’re one innings away from something big. That’s Rahul Tripathi. The guy’s quick, sharp, and fearless — sometimes too fearless. He plays with this “nothing to lose” vibe that makes him exciting, but also risky.
He’s had a few cracks at the Indian team. Didn’t fully click. But in domestic games and the IPL, he still brings energy. This season? It’s now or never. If he goes big, maybe he gets one more chance.
Rajvardhan Hangargekar – The Wild Speedster
He’s from Kolhapur. Big, tall, and throws the ball like it owes him money. Rajvardhan is still young — early 20s — but already, people see that raw speed and think: “This guy could be it.”
He played for India’s U-19 team, and now he’s getting games with CSK. He’s quick, yes, but he’s learning too. How to bowl slower balls. Yorkers. Handle pressure. There’s still some roughness, but the potential? It’s all there.
Azim Kazi – Doesn’t Make Noise, But Wins Games
Not everyone grabs headlines. Azim Kazi is one of those who just… gets the job done. He bats left-handed. Spins left-arm. Doesn’t do anything flashy, but somehow, he always ends up in the highlights.
He’s been winning games for Maharashtra quietly. Like, one day he’ll hit 60 off 30. Next game? He’ll take 3 wickets. Not loud, not viral. But if you're watching closely, you’ll know he’s a complete cricketer.
Ankit Bawne – Still Holding the Fort
Now, here’s a name every Ranji fan knows. Ankit Bawne has been the backbone of Maharashtra cricket for over 10 years. Always solid. Rarely flashy. But dependable? Absolutely.
He’s one of those guys who never got an India cap, but he’s carried the team more times than we can count. This year, he’s also mentoring — helping the younger players. And still scoring runs, by the way.
Vicky Ostwal – The Young Spinner Everyone’s Watching
Vicky’s a left-arm spinner, and a good one. Played the U-19 World Cup, came out looking like a future India player. Now, he’s working through the ranks — Syed Mushtaq Ali, IPL nets, even India A whispers.
He’s from Lonavala — not a big cricketing city — but that’s what makes this more special. He’s got flight, turn, and he’s smart. Doesn’t just bowl, he thinks. Which you don’t always see in young spinners.
Naushad Shaikh – A Name You Might’ve Missed
He doesn’t do interviews. Doesn’t trend on Twitter. But Naushad Shaikh? He’s rock solid in the middle order. When things collapse, he stays. When there’s pressure, he doesn’t flinch.
You need guys like him in your team. Especially when the flashy players don’t fire. His contribution this year might not be loud, but it’ll matter.
What’s Changed in Maharashtra Cricket?
A lot, actually.
Pune’s MCA stadium is finally being used right. Kolhapur and Nagpur have new academies. Local tournaments are streamed online now — people can see these players. Before, you'd have to move to Mumbai to get noticed. Not anymore.
Coaching is better. Fitness is taken seriously. There are talent scouts looking beyond cities — into villages even. So yeah, things are different now. And it shows.
You May Also Like: Breaking Boundaries: How Punjab’s Youth Is Redefining Indian Cricket?
What’s at Stake This Season?
Everything. Not just for Maharashtra — for these cricketers too.
We’ve got Ranji Trophy coming up. Syed Mushtaq Ali. Vijay Hazare. India A tours. IPL 2025 auctions. If you make noise in just one of these, the selectors notice.
Also, the Champions Trophy is around the corner. India needs bench strength. Guys who can travel, sit in the squad, be ready. Maharashtra might just send two or three names if things go right.
The Final Over
So, here’s the truth: Maharashtra cricket is having a moment. It’s not flashy yet. But it’s real. It’s consistent. And it’s coming.
Ruturaj might lead the charge. Hangargekar might scare batters with pace. Kazi and Ostwal could become India’s new spin duo. Bawne might guide the next star. This season could change things.
You might want to remember these names — before they’re everywhere.
