Mumbai’s left-arm spinner, Shams Mulani, has expressed admiration for the exceptional leadership skills exhibited by skipper Ajinkya Rahane during the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2023/24. Despite facing challenges with the bat, Rahane’s captaincy has been a source of inspiration for the team, contributing to Mumbai’s impressive performance in the tournament.
Mulani, who serves as Rahane’s deputy in the leadership group, recently led the team in Rahane’s absence due to a hamstring injury during their match against Uttar Pradesh. In an exclusive conversation with Sportskeeda, Mulani highlighted the positive impact of having someone of Rahane’s stature lead the team.
“Ajinkya Rahane truly leads and brings out the best in his teammates. He is a true leader. Having a player of his caliber, with extensive experience in Test matches for India, leading the Mumbai team is fantastic. He knows precisely when and what needs to be communicated,” he said.
Mumbai’s current Ranji Trophy campaign has seen them secure three outright wins in their first three games, placing them at the top of Elite Group B with 20 points. While Rahane may be struggling with the bat, Mulani emphasized that the leadership qualities displayed by the captain have never been in doubt.
India’s remarkable Test series win against Australia down under in 2020-21 serves as a testament to Rahane’s leadership prowess.
Shams Mulani shed light on Mumbai’s current form in the Ranji Trophy
Reflecting on Mumbai’s recent form in the Ranji Trophy, Mulani addressed the team’s journey, particularly their loss in the 2021/22 final against Madhya Pradesh. Despite falling short in that instance, Mulani noted that discussions about a crisis in Mumbai cricket tend to emerge if the team goes without a win for a couple of years.
“We reached the final of the 2021/22 Ranji Trophy, but regrettably, we didn’t emerge victorious. It’s a trend that if we go without a win for 2-3 years, discussions about a crisis in Mumbai cricket arise. That’s the standard we’ve set,” he said.
Mulani further emphasized the experience brought in by the players, excluding a few who are engaged with India A and the national team. He highlighted how this experience proves invaluable.
“Examining our batting and bowling, the majority of our players are accessible, except for a few who are representing India A and the national team. These players bring valuable experience, aiding the team during crucial moments in the Ranji Trophy,” he added/
Despite a defeat to Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai’s position in the points table remains unchanged. Mumbai scored 198 in their first innings with Shams Mulani top scoring 57. Aaqib Khan and Ankit Rajpoot picked three wickets each. In their reply, Uttar Pradesh scored 324. Nitish Rana, the Uttar Pradesh captain scored an aggressive 106.
A stunning 117 from all-rounder Shivam Dube ensured that Mumbai scored 320 in the second innings. Needing 195 to secure a win, Uttar Pradesh chased down the target with 2 wickets to spare. Aryan Juyal the wicketkeeper scored 76 while Karan Sharma remained not out on 67* to ensure that UP secure a win.
With an impressive tally of 41 Ranji Trophy titles, the latest secured in 2015/16, Mumbai continues to maintain its legacy as a cricket powerhouse. As the team navigates through the challenges of the current season, Rahane’s leadership continues to be a guiding force for Mumbai in their quest for success.