Bengal Aims for Redemption Against Struggling Railways in Ranji Trophy 2025-26

In one of the country’s oldest port cities, Bengal is set to steady its course in the fourth round of the Ranji Trophy, starting this Saturday. Under the guidance of coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla, the team aims to recover from a disappointing draw against Tripura as they face Railways in an Elite Group C match at Surat’s Lalbhai Contractor Stadium. This setback has dropped them from the top of the table to third place, trailing Haryana and Services.

The team is dealing with an increasing list of unavailable players. Wicketkeeper-batter Abishek Porel, who was selected to step in for regular captain Abhimanyu Easwaran in the last match, is currently at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru after being named to the ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup squad. As a result, Sudip Gharami will lead the team, with Shakir Habib Gandhi taking on wicketkeeping duties.

Additionally, India pacer Mohammed Shami, who did not take any wickets in the previous match, returned to Delhi on Wednesday. Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal is expected to replace him in the lineup.

The match will be contested on a traditional red-soil pitch featuring a light green cover, which should provide true bounce and carry for the first two days before breaking down in favor of spin bowlers. This scenario could benefit leg-spinner Karn Sharma from Railways, who is still seeking his first win. Despite taking just two wickets so far, Sharma may find the venue’s conditions favorable.

While observing captain Pratham Singh’s batting practice on Friday, Railways coach Santosh Saxena expressed caution about Bengal’s capabilities. He remarked, “They are a talented group with an excellent bowling attack poised to exploit the pitch here. Fortunately, we have no injuries and are prepared for the challenge.”

Published on November 7, 2025