The clarity that Mumbai cricket had been waiting for has finally arrived. Both Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube are going to be part of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025–26, thus, the defending champions will be greatly benefited before the domestic T20 season.
The biggest confirmation came directly from Mumbai chief selector Sanjay Patil. Speaking to Sportstar, he said, “I spoke to Surya this afternoon and he told me that he will be available for the entire tournament. So is the case with Shivam.” This statement puts an end to all the uncertainty around their availability.
Nevertheless, varying sources indicate that although Suryakumar is all in for the tournament, he will only participate in the first few matches, as he will very soon direct his attention to India’s next five-match T20I series with South Africa commencing December 9. Following that, the Indian team will go through a hectic international period that will last until the T20 World Cup in February–March 2026.
Why This Tournament Matters for Suryakumar and Dube
Suryakumar Yadav had come through a tough year in cricket and would be the first to admit that he nevertheless was looking forward to the day when he would be able to play like his usual self again before the start of the international season.
- Asia Cup 2025: 72 runs in 7 matches (Avg: 18.00)
- Australia T20Is: 84 runs in 5 matches (Avg: 28.00, SR: 171.42)
The SMAT will be of great help in honing his skills, especially with South Africa and the World Cup waiting in line. Dube, on the other hand, had an up-and-down season but did show signs of improvement in his bowling.
- Australia T20Is: 26 runs in 5 games (Avg: 13.00) and 3 wickets at 21.00
- Asia Cup final vs Pakistan: Played a handy knock of 33 off 22 balls
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Mumbai’s SMAT 2025–26 Campaign
Mumbai will begin their journey on November 26, and with Suryakumar likely leading the side, the team will start as one of the strongest units in the tournament.
Mumbai’s Match Schedule
| Date | Opponent |
| Nov 26 | Railways |
| Nov 28 | Vidarbha |
| Nov 30 | Andhra |
| Dec 2 | Assam |
| Dec 4 | Kerala |
| Dec 6 | Chhattisgarh |
| Dec 8 | Odisha |
Final Word
Indeed, both Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube have now confirmed their participation in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025–26. Surya is likely to lead Mumbai and take part in the initial games, while Dube will be there all the time. This tournament, with the T20I schedule getting busier, is the right moment for both the players to get their confidence and form back.
Written By:- Manjunath S