Image Source: AP
[Saba Sports News] Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane captained Mumbai to their 42nd Ranji Trophy victory, overcoming Vidarbha by 169 runs in the final at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
Set a daunting 538-run target, Vidarbha collapsed to 368, with their skipper Akshay Wadkar hitting a century. Rahane’s critical 73-run innings marked a highlight in an otherwise challenging season for him, having registered only one fifty prior in 12 innings. Post-victory, he acknowledged his form struggles yet expressed immense joy in winning the title, emphasizing the importance of team spirit and collective success.
“Even though I am the lowest scorer for my team, I am the happiest to lift the trophy. As a player, you will have ups and downs. It’s about creating atmosphere in dressing room and enjoy each other’s success. This is a special moment,” Rahane said at the post-match presentation ceremony. “Last year, we failed to qualify for the knock-outs by one run. We had to create the right culture and attitude in the team. We created a fitness culture and I would thank MCA for providing all the support.”
Rahane highlighted the team’s efforts in building a positive fitness culture and expressed gratitude towards the Mumbai Cricket Association for their support, especially after narrowly missing knockout qualification last year. He also appreciated the BCCI’s emphasis on domestic cricket’s significance, encouraging player participation.
“I want to mention one thing about BCCI giving importance to domestic cricket which is a very good thing, telling players to play domestic cricket. Which is very important,” he added.
In this Ranji season, Rahane amassed 214 runs across 13 innings, averaging 17.83 with two half-centuries. Additionally, young Musheer Khan made headlines by becoming the youngest to score a century in a Ranji Trophy final, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record, and earning the Player of the Match, while Tanush Kotian was named Player of the Tournament for his all-round performance.