Follow Us214 runs across 13 innings at an average of 17.83 - Ajinkya Rahane was Mumbai’s worst batter in the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy, but the 35-year-old doesn’t care. The reason why he doesn’t care is because Mumbai, on Thursday (March 14), won their 42nd Ranji title under his leadership by defeating a formidable Vidarbha unit at the Wankhede Stadium.
“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,” said Rahane after Mumbai’s 169-run win.
“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.”
After Mumbai set a target of 538 in the final innings, Vidarbha fought extremely hard and kept Rahane and his men on their toes. Karun Nair first scored 74 off 220 deliveries Vidarbha skipper Akshay Wadkar crafted a stunning century.
Wadkar (102) and Harsh Dubey (65) put on 130 runs for the sixth wicket but once Tanush Kotian broke the partnership, Mumbai took the remaining wickets in no time.
“Before talking about us, I want to take a moment to appreciate Vidarbha. The way they showed fight throughout, it would have been very easy for them to give up. The way they have been playing for the last 7-8 years has been great to see,” said Rahane.
“This moment is really special for us. Last year, we didn't qualify by one 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.”
Fittingly, it was Dhawal Kulkarni who took the final wicket. Playing his last professional match, the 35-year-old knocked over Umesh Yadav and won his fifth Ranji title. “I have been playing with him since U-14 level, we toured U-19 for India together,” said Rahane about Kulkarni.
“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.”
Meanwhile, Kulkarni said: “It's a cricketer's dream to start and finish on a high. This is my sixth final, fifth time we've won and this will be dear to me.
“It was an excellent gesture, I didn't expect (Rahane would give me the ball to finish the game), but hats off to Tushar who gave the ball to me despite taking two wickets. I've got experience as I've played with big stars, they've shared plenty of experience with me and I have passed the same to the younger lot.”