Mandeep Singh is set to return to Tripura as a guest player for the upcoming domestic season, a year after stepping away from the State side following a productive first stint.

All-rounder Swapnil Singh is also expected to rejoin Tripura as the association looks to add experience to a squad that has struggled to make a sustained impact in recent seasons.

Mandeep, who is currently training in England, confirmed the development to Sportstar. The 34-year-old had moved to Tripura from Punjab ahead of the 2024-25 season and was entrusted with the captaincy across formats.

His first season with the State side was particularly fruitful in the Ranji Trophy. Mandeep scored 517 runs in six matches, including an unbeaten 124. He also made a half-century in each of his nine innings, underlining his consistency through the campaign.

He was not part of Tripura’s squad last season after the association brought in India internationals Hanuma Vihari and Vijay Shankar as guest players. The additions, however, did not help Tripura secure a knockout berth.

The return of Mandeep is part of Tripura’s efforts to bring greater experience and stability to a side that has struggled to mount a sustained challenge in recent seasons.

Seasoned Bengal coach Satrajit Lahiri is in contention to take over as head coach. Lahiri, when contacted by this publication, said discussions were still ongoing and that he was yet to sign the contract.

Tripura’s best Ranji Trophy campaign in the last five years came in 2024-25, coinciding with Mandeep’s first stint. The side finished fifth in Elite Group A with one win, one defeat and four draws. It has otherwise largely remained outside the knockout picture in recent seasons.

Swapnil’s return would add to the experience in the squad, with the all-rounder having previously represented Tripura. His familiarity with the setup, along with Mandeep’s return, is expected to provide greater stability as Tripura looks to mount a stronger challenge in the new season.

Published on Sep 08, 2026