Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane was on Wednesday ruled out of the Super League stage of the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy with a fitness issue.
Rahane played through the group stages with a few niggles but apparently could not clear the fitness test for the Super League stage.
"He was carrying niggles even during the league phase, which he kind of pushed through when we were in a bit of trouble. But he would not be 100% (for Super League)," said Mumbai Cricket Asociation chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar.
Rahane also had a point to prove to the selectors before they sit to select the final 15 for the ODI World Cup in England. Rahane’s name was doing the rounds as the back-up opener. But unfortunately, he made just 58 runs at an average of 9.67.
Mumbai qualified as the table toppers of group C, winning five out of six matches.
Rahane’s fitness will also be closely monitored by Rajasthan Royals, who have appointed him as captain for IPL 2019. The IPL will start on March 23, with Royals starting their campaign in Jaipur against Kings XI Punjab on March 25.