New Delhi, Nov 14: Delhi were hoping the return of test players Aakash Chopra and Ashish Nehra would boost their chances against reigning champions Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy elite group 'A' encounter starting here tomorrow. Opening batsman Chopra will be back in the team after missing the season opener against Uttar Pradesh with a finger injury he suffered in the second test against New Zealand at Mohali last month. Left arm Seamer Nehra's return though was a sort of demotion since he joins the team after being dropped from the India One-Day squad of the on-going TVS Cup Tri-Series.
The left arm Seamer went wicketless for 80 runs in his first match, against Australia at Bangalore on Wednesday, after a seven month-long injury lay off. Nevertheless, the presence of the two experienced players would be a huge morale booster for Delhi who have their task cut out after failing to force a result at Kanpur last week.


Mumbai on the other hand come into the match with their confidence high following a convincing five-wicket win over baroda in their opening match.
The defending champions will be without India international Avishkar Salvi but any hole in their bowling attack should be filled by Munaf Patel who is all set for his Ranji debut. Bureau Report