Mumbai’s cricketing legacy received another jewel in its crown as they clinched their record-extending 42nd Ranji Trophy title, concluding the 2024 season with a riveting 169-run victory against Vidarbha. The final, held amidst the echoes of cheers at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, witnessed not just a display of exceptional cricket but a farewell to a domestic warrior, Dhawal Kulkarni, while former and current cricketing stars from Mumbai lauded the team’s triumph.
The win was a cumulative effort, with standout performances by Musheer Khan, who was declared Player of the Match, and Tanush Kotian, who earned the honors of Player of the Tournament. In a remarkable display of endurance and skill, Khan scored a diligent 136 off 326 balls in the second innings and grabbed two crucial wickets, demonstrating the vitality and talent flourishing in Mumbai’s cricket scene.
The last day of the game saw Vidarbha, facing a daunting 538-run challenge, put up a valiant fightback. Their grit and persistence made for an enthralling final that underscored the significance of domestic cricket. Vidarbha’s resilience was particularly personified by Karun, Akshay, and Harsh, who batted with determination, keeping the outcome uncertain until Mumbai’s bowlers, led by Kotian’s four wickets in the fourth innings, applied relentless pressure to eventually secure the win.
Sachin Tendulkar, a colossus of the sport and a former Mumbai captain who has lifted the Ranji Trophy four times himself, took to social media to congratulate his former state team. He wrote, “Many congratulations to Mumbai Cricket Association on winning their 42nd Ranji Trophy. Vidarbha’s resilience added to the spectacle, especially Karun, Akshay & Harsh, who batted extremely well and made the match very interesting. Mumbai’s bowlers kept bowling relentlessly, and finally, the breakthrough was provided by Tanush, who picked up four wickets in the 4th innings. A fantastic display of cricket that had us all captivated. This is what makes domestic cricket so very important.”
The finale also marked a poignant moment in Mumbai’s cricket narrative as it celebrated Dhawal Kulkarni’s retirement from domestic cricket. The seasoned pace bowler, who took four wickets across two innings in the final, scripted the perfect climax to his career by claiming the match-winning wicket. Acknowledging Kulkarni’s contribution, Sachin paid tribute to his teammate in a heartfelt message, expressing his praise for Kulkarni’s dedication and discipline over his 15-year tenure with Mumbai.
Rohit Sharma, a modern-day maven and current captain of the Indian cricket team, also shared his commendations for the state team’s outstanding achievement in the prestigious first-class tournament. In a post revealing his pride and joy for his home team’s victory, he also paid homage to Dhawal for his commendable career.
The Ranji Trophy’s significance as a cradle for nurturing India’s cricketing talent cannot be overstated, and victories like these serve as a testament to the sheer depth and quality of cricket in the country. Mumbai’s triumph not only reinforces their dominance in India’s premier domestic competition but also acts as an inspiration for upcoming cricketers, highlighting the glory and opportunities inherent in the Ranji Trophy.
As the celebrations enveloped Mumbai and its cricketing fraternity, the Mumbai Cricket Association announced, in light of the team’s victory, a substantial increase in the prize money, rewarding the players with an additional Rs 5 crore. This gesture reflects not only the Association’s appreciation for the team’s hard work but also serves as a motivational boost for the future aspirants of Mumbai’s rich cricketing heritage.
In conclusion, Mumbai’s gripping victory in the Ranji Trophy 2024 not only commemorates the prowess and potential residing in the team but also honors the stellar careers of players like Dhawal Kulkarni. It cements Mumbai’s place at the pinnacle of domestic cricket and renews the allure of the Ranji Trophy in fostering the stars of tomorrow.
