Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane expressed his joy as his team clinched their 42nd Ranji Trophy title under his leadership. Despite his struggles in red-ball cricket this season, the 35-year-old credited the team for their performance and pledged to bounce back soon.
Rahane scored just 214 runs in 13 innings, including two half-centuries. However, he played a resilient innings of 73 (143) to rescue Mumbai in the final after early setbacks in the second innings.
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During his knock, Rahane formed a crucial 130-run partnership with Musheer Khan for the third wicket. Apost-match, Ajinkya Rahane stated:
“Ups and downs as a part of the game, I never think about myself, it is always team first. I’m the happiest that we are champions despite me being the lowest run-scorer for the team this year. This is a phase every player goes through, you need to keep working hard.”
He added:
“Tonight, we celebrate. We enjoy the win because this has been a long, hard season. Whenever we get back in June, we’ll plan for the next season. Want to credit the Mumbai support staff for their efforts in the backend throughout the season.”
“This moment is really special for us. Last year, we didn’t qualify by 1 run, which really hurt us. We knew we had the talent and individuals, but what was important was creating the right culture and attitude. Would like to thank MCA for their support as well.”
Next, Ajinkya Rahane will represent Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Super Kings will kick off their IPL 2024 season against the Royal Challengers Bangalore at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on March 22.
“He has been a role model, someone to look up to” –Ajinkya Rahane’s remarks on Dhawal Kulkarni’s retirement after Ranji Trophy final
Rahane also praised Dhawal Kulkarni for his impressive career, as he took the final wicket, dismissing Umesh Yadav, to seal victory for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy final.
“I have been playing with him since U14 level, we toured U19 for India together. The way he conducts himself on and off the field, sharing his experiences with the younger boys has been really helpful for the side.”
“He has been a role model, someone to look up to. I want to wish Dhawal all the very best in whatever he does with his future.”
Throughout his 15-year career, Kulkarni amassed 281 wickets in 95 first-class matches, which included five instances of taking five wickets in an innings.
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