‘I take full responsibility’: Amay Khurasiya on Kerala’s disappointing Ranji season
Kerala's sharp decline from Ranji Trophy finalists to early exits has exposed underlying weaknesses. The departure of key all-rounder Jalaj Saxena has left a significant void, impacting the team's control and experience. Despite dedicated preparation, the squad struggled across all facets, highlighting a need for better planning and accountability to build a more resilient future.
KOCHI: Kerala’s slide from Ranji Trophy finalists to also-rans has reignited an uncomfortable question: was last season a glorious peak built on fragile foundations? Twelve months after finishing runners-up, Kerala failed to reach the knockouts. It is a regression too sharp to ignore and too stark to be dismissed just as a blip.
The drop-off has reopened fault lines within the squad, exposing fissures that a dream run may have conveniently papered over. At the heart of the decline lies a Jalaj Saxena-sized void. The veteran all-rounder’s move to Maharashtra after nine seasons left behind more than just a statistical gap; it stripped the side of control, balance and experience during clutch moments.
Playing in Elite Group B, Kerala suffered innings losses to Karnataka and Chandigarh, before notching up their lone win against Goa, capping a lacklustre season spanning seven games. “As head of the family, I take full responsibility for the performances,” coach Amay Khurasiya told TOI. “We prepared with the same earnestness as we did last season when we reached the final.
But there were glitches in this season across all facets of the game," Khurasiya explained. If there was a silver lining, it came in the tireless efforts of MD Nidheesh. “His work ethic was impeccable,” Khurasiya noted.