Domestic Legend Jalaj Saxena Joins New Team After Kerala Exit | Cricket News

Veteran domestic spin all-rounder Jalaj Saxena has reportedly joined Maharashtra ahead of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season after parting ways with Kerala, after nine years. According to PTI, the 38-year-old set to become the second big name after Prithvi Shaw to join the heavyweights.

Saxena is considered one of the best players on the domestic circuit to have never played for India. He has featured in 150 first-class matches, scoring 7,060 runs at 33.77 with 14 centuries and 34 half-centuries while also picking 484 wickets with 34 five-fors in the format. He started at Madhya Pradesh in December 2005 and joined Kerala in 2016, with the best of his exploits being helping them to the final of the last Ranji season.

Saxena had announced his Kerala exit on social media without specifying his new destination.

“It’s never easy to put my feelings into words, but today I want to share something close to my heart,” he wrote on his Instagram post. “I have played my last game in Kerala colours, and that thought still feels surreal. Saying this brings a strange mix of emotions – gratitude, pride and a little ache. Over the years, this team has given me more than just cricket. It gave me brothers, friends and a family that stood by me through every high and low. I’ve given blood, sweat, and tears – everything I had – for this journey, and in return, it gave me memories and bonds that will last a lifetime.”

“To each and every teammate – thank you for making the dressing room a place of laughter, learning, and unforgettable memories. To the KCA, coaches, support staff, and the unsung heroes – the groundsmen who work tirelessly so we can have our game – my deepest respect and gratitude. None of this journey would have been possible without your support,” he said. “Cricket has taught me that every ending is just a new beginning. My heart will always beat for Kerala, and I’ll always carry these memories with me whenever I go,” Saxena added.