Punjab begin Ranji Trophy campaign against Assam at New Chandigarh
Punjab host Assam in their Ranji Trophy opener at New Chandigarh on Sunday. Umesh Yadav debuts for his new state while international duties keep Prabhsimran Singh and Naman Dhir out.
Punjab open their Ranji Trophy 2026-27 season against Assam at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh on Sunday. Assam collected only three points last season and narrowly avoided relegation to the Plate division.
Punjab have appointed Amit Uniyal as head coach and handed the captaincy to 22-year-old Uday Saharan for the full campaign. International call-ups have ruled out Prabhsimran Singh and Naman Dhir for the first two rounds, giving Harnoor Singh Pannu another opportunity at the top of the order.
Umesh Yadav makes his debut for Punjab and will lead the pace attack alongside Gurnoor Brar. Assam retain their leading run-scorers from last season but will miss left-arm spinner Rahul Singh.
CricHubb Take
Punjab's decision to blood a young core while resting established internationals suggests the state is planning for sustained competitiveness rather than a short-term push for the knockout stage.