Uttar Pradesh’s left-arm spin all-rounder Shivam Sharma has been included in the playing XI as a serious injury replacement for Prashant Veer, who suffered a shoulder injury during the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 match against Jharkhand. Sharma was added to the squad on the morning of the second day after the match referee received Veer’s medical report. Veer, injured while fielding on the first day before lunch, is expected to be sidelined for at least three weeks.

This marks the second instance of the Serious Injury Replacement rule being applied in the domestic Indian season. Introduced earlier in 2025, the rule allows teams to substitute injured players whose injuries prevent them from continuing, including head injuries. It is independent of the concussion substitute regulation. The first instance occurred in October 2025 when Bengal’s Kazi Junaid Saifi replaced Sudip Chatterjee in the Bengal vs Gujarat match.

On the second day of the Uttar Pradesh vs Jharkhand match, Jharkhand strengthened their position with Kumar Kushagra scoring his fifth first-class century, finishing the day at 561 for 6. Sharandeep Singh also scored a century on the first day. Sharma, stepping in for Veer, bowled 18.5 overs and claimed two valuable wickets, including that of Kushagra.

The Serious Injury Replacement rule ensures teams maintain competitiveness even when key players leave the field due to injuries. For Shivam Sharma, it provides an opportunity to enter the playing XI, demonstrate his skills, and gain experience under high-pressure conditions. His inclusion adds depth to both batting and bowling, offering flexibility in the long-format first-class tournament.

Sharma’s inclusion highlights the importance of injury replacement regulations in domestic cricket. Playing at this level challenges him against top domestic talent, enhancing his experience and improving future selection prospects. For cricket fans, watching Sharma adapt to this role adds excitement. Each of his deliveries and runs contributes to Uttar Pradesh’s campaign, maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of the Ranji Trophy 2025–26.