Highlighting the significance of red-ball cricket, victorious Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday praised the BCCI for pushing players towards domestic cricket.
In the recent past, the Indian cricket board has been very active in directing the senior cricketers towards red-ball cricket, including domestic competitions such as the prestigious Ranji Trophy.
Notably, the BCCI had recently excluded middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer and wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan from the central contracts. The development came after the duo’s non-compliance with the Indian team management’s recommendation to participate in the Ranji Trophy.
“I want to mention about BCCI for giving importance to domestic cricket, which is a very good thing. Allowing players to go and play domestic cricket is very important,” Rahane said after guiding Mumbai to a record-extending 42nd Ranji Trophy title at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.
Further speaking on the historic win, Rahane said: “This moment is really special for us. Last year, we didn’t qualify by 1 run, that really hurt us. We knew we had the talent and individuals, but what is important was creating the right culture and attitude. Would like to thank MCA for their support as well.”
“I’m the happiest that we are champions despite me being the lowest run scorer for the team this year,” he added.
Meanwhile, Rahane also lauded Dhawal Kulkarni, who played his final First-Class game on Thursday. “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,” Rahane expressed.
Also Read: Ranji Trophy: Mumbai beat Vidarbha, clinch 42nd title
“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,” he added.
Notably, Mumbai’s spin-bowling all-rounder Tanush Kotian (4/95) and pacer Tushar Deshpande (2/53) were the chief architects of the win as their fantastic bowling effort resulted in Vidarbha’s downfall. Mumbai wrapped up their opponents for 368 runs in their second innings in a massive chase of 538.
