Ranji Trophy: Important to be backed as a spinner, says off-break bowler Hrithik Shokeen

In recent seasons, Delhi’s spin department in the Ranji Trophy has been a revolving door. Many tweakers have been tried and moved on without a semblance of stability.

Off-spinning all-rounder Hrithik Shokeen has had a taste of the environment. He made his First Class debut against Assam in December 2022, but has just played 17 games in five seasons. That includes one Duleep Trophy outing for India-C against India-D in 2024. In the last two Ranji campaigns, he appeared in two games each.

Having taken his maiden five-for on Wednesday, the 26-year-old will hope for a longer run now. He plugged away for 53 overs in Gujarat’s first innings on a turgid track at the Palam ‘B’ ground and yielded returns of five for 143.

“It is my first five-for. So, it is very special,” he told reporters. “I have spoken to coach Vijay Dahiya. He did say that our spinners have not been doing well. But he has given me confidence that I can do well. That backing is very important.”

While it appears puzzling that Shokeen has had just 12 appearances across formats since December 2024, he disclosed that a stress fracture in his lower back has also contributed to the sporadic game time.

“I got injured last season. I have felt that Delhi has backed me. I had a setback because of the injury. My physio did say it was unusual for a spinner to have a back injury. I have worked on my bowling action as a result. I have improved the follow-through,” Shokeen revealed.