Veteran Indian all-rounder Jalaj Saxena has signed with Maharashtra for the upcoming domestic season.
Saxena was Kerala’s highest wicket-taker – 40 wickets at an average of 22.55 – during their Ranji Trophy runners-up finish last season. However, he has changed allegiance and will play for Maharashtra this season. The all-rounder playing for Kerala since the 2016-17 season, picked up 269 wickets at 20.68 besides scoring 2,252 at 28.50.
"It is a matter of great pride for me to join the Maharashtra cricket team. Maharashtra cricket has a rich legacy, and I am fully prepared to contribute my best for the team," Saxena said to Sportstar, confirming the move.
View this post on Instagram
Having made his first-class debut for Madhya Pradesh in the 2005-06 season, Saxena is a veteran of India's first-class circuit with a total of 150 matches to his name. His tally of 428 wickets is the seventh-highest in Ranji Trophy history. He has a realistic chance of entering the top five, as he is within close range of R. Vinay Kumar (442), Narendra Hirwani (441), and B.S. Chandrasekhar (437). He has also scored 6,293 runs in the tournament, making him the first player to achieve the double of 6000 runs and 400 wickets.
Saxena will play under the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad, who also leads the IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings. The Maharashtra setup has seen another high-profile addition in out-of-favour India batter Prithvi Shaw. Saxena has expressed his excitement about joining his new teammates.
"It is an honour to play alongside players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Prithvi Shaw, and Ankit Bawne, as well as many talented newcomers. The Maharashtra Premier League is an excellent platform that helps upcoming players showcase their talent," Saxena said.
The 38-year-old has also played 109 List A and 73 T20 matches, featuring in two Champions League games for the Mumbai Indians in 2014 and one IPL match for Punjab Kings in 2021.
Image Credit: Instagram/jalajsaxena51
Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.
