Pune: Veteran domestic cricketer Jalaj Saxena has joined Maharashtra ahead of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, parting ways with Kerala, where he represented the team for nine seasons.
The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) confirmed that Saxena, who began his first-class career with Madhya Pradesh in 2005-06 before moving to Kerala in 2016-17, will now bolster Maharashtra’s squad.
“Jalaj Saxena is one of India’s most accomplished and versatile all-rounders in domestic cricket. His career is distinguished by outstanding performances across all formats, earning widespread recognition from cricket experts and analysts,” the MCA said in a statement.
“His strengths extend beyond batting and bowling. Saxena’s deep understanding of the game, tactical acumen, ability to perform under pressure, and his willingness to mentor younger players make him an invaluable asset to the Maharashtra squad,” the association added.
The 38-year-old Saxena becomes the second high-profile addition to Maharashtra this season after India batter Prithvi Shaw joined the team from Mumbai.
A highly accomplished cricketer who has yet to represent India at the international level, Saxena has played 150 first-class matches, amassing 7,060 runs at an average of 33.77, including 14 centuries and 34 half-centuries. He has also taken 484 wickets with 34 five-wicket hauls in first-class cricket.
In addition, Saxena has played 109 List A matches and 73 T20 matches over his nearly two-decade-long career. He has also represented Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League.
Maharashtra has been strengthening its squad ahead of the domestic season. Alongside Saxena and Shaw, the team has reappointed Australia’s Shaun Williams as their director of cricket. Williams previously served as Maharashtra’s head coach from 2008-12, during which the team reached the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals and won the National T20 title in 2009-10. He was MCA general manager in 2012 when Maharashtra reached the Ranji Trophy final in 2013-14 and also won the CK Nayudu Trophy with the U-25 squad.
“Jalaj Saxena is an immensely talented and experienced cricketer whose achievements in the Ranji Trophy and domestic cricket are exceptional. He stands among India’s best all-rounders,” MCA president Rohit Pawar said.
“His vast experience will greatly benefit younger players, and his inclusion strengthens the team significantly,” he added.
Saxena, who announced his exit from Kerala on social media recently, expressed excitement about joining Maharashtra and playing alongside stars like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw.
“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.
“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,” he added.
Shaun Williams also praised Saxena’s arrival, saying, “His all-around abilities, coupled with his experience and leadership, will be invaluable for both the team and young cricketers seeking guidance. Jalaj Saxena is certainly a key prospect for Maharashtra this season.”
With PTI Inputs