Mumbai’s left-arm spinner, Shams Mulani, expressed the team’s excitement as captain Ajinkya Rahane showcased leadership through a noteworthy fifty on Day 2 of the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2023/24 final against Vidarbha.
Despite a season with limited runs, Rahane delivered on the significant stage, finishing the day unbeaten and positioning his team dominantly.
Addressing the media post the conclusion of Day 2, Shams Mulani shared Mumbai players’ response to Ajinkya Rahane’s pivotal innings, stating:
“We celebrated like it was a hundred because we knew how important this small milestone was for him. For the team, for himself, in this situation, it was very important that he stays on the wicket.”
Dhawal Kulkarni, an experienced campaigner playing his last first-class match, left a notable impact as he recorded impressive figures of 3/15.
His stellar performance contributed to Mumbai dismissing Vidarbha for a mere 105. Shams Mulani highlighted the emotional significance of this moment for Kulkarni and the entire team.
Shams Mulani commented on the influence of Musheer Khan
Musheer Khan seamlessly adapted to top-level first-class cricket, showcasing his talent with a remarkable double century against Baroda in the Ranji Trophy 2023/24 quarterfinals.
Additionally, on Day 2 of the final, he played a vital role by securing a crucial fifty, contributing to the consolidation of Mumbai’s innings alongside Rahane.
On this, Shams Mulani said:
“Last year, when Musheer made his debut, Sarfaraz told the dressing room that what others do, this guy can do much better than that. He knew what (kind of) character Musheer is -the gritty character that he is. He has shown that, coming into the knockouts from the (U-19) World Cup.”
The 130-run alliance between Musheer and Rahane concluded as the Mumbai captain departed for 73 on Day 3. Despite this, the hosts have surged past a 300-run lead, and with seven wickets remaining, their objective is to bat Vidarbha out of the competition.
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