In the world of cricket, every athlete knows the relentless pressure of maintaining a consistent performance. For Shreyas Iyer and Ajinkya Rahane, two of India and Mumbai’s celebrated cricket stars, the challenge has become all too real as they confront a notable phase of poor form. Shardul Thakur, their teammate, has come forward in solidarity with the duo, especially as Rahane captains the Mumbai team in the heated final match of the Ranji Trophy 2024 against Vidarbha, a game in which Iyer is also playing, having rejoined the team from the semifinals onward.
Both athletes have been struggling to find their rhythm with Rahane scoring a meager 141 runs across eight matches, and Iyer accumulating 58 runs from three appearances. During the first innings of the final, the two experienced players each made an identical score of seven, contributing to the 41-time champions’ total tally of 224. Despite their recent performances, Thakur has confidently backed the pair, emphasizing their history as match winners and the need for support rather than criticism.
In his address to the media after the culmination of the day’s play, Thakur expressed his concern but also his unwavering trust in the capabilities of the cricketers. “Ajinkya is not scoring runs throughout the season. He is not in the greatest of forms. We cannot blame him as it is just a phase for him where he is not getting runs,” Thakur noted, identifying the current situation as a mere rough patch for Rahane and Iyer.
His empathy was clear as he continued, “These guys have been absolute match-winners for Mumbai and India. Right now, it’s not their time; it’s time to support them rather than criticizing them because it’s easy to criticize.”
Thakur’s commendations didn’t stop at their batting. He went on to laud their on-field attitudes and fielding prowess. He highlighted Rahane’s top-notch attitude, even as the scores were not forthcoming. Thakur pointed to the stellar example set by the senior player, especially for the younger talent emerging from the Under-23 and Under-19 cricket tiers in Mumbai. He complimented Rahane’s sprint to save four runs despite fielding for extensive overs, and he referred to Iyer’s energetic fielding efforts, likening him to a tiger diligently covering the ground.
The Mumbai native didn’t shy away from calling upon other batsmen in the team to pull up their socks. He criticized the lack of a better approach to batting, using Bhupen Lalwani’s dismissal as an example of what not to do and stressed the importance of prioritizing the team over individual glory. “When you play here, you play for the team,” Thakur reminded his teammates, underlining that the Mumbai dressing room culture demands putting team success over personal records.
The message from Shardul Thakur resonates beyond the immediate context of the Ranji Trophy final — it is a reminder of the cyclical nature of sports where form is temporary, and class is permanent. Rahane’s and Iyer’s past achievements stand as a testament to their skill and potential. With Thakur’s public support, it is clear that within the team, the belief in their abilities remains unshaken. As they navigate through this challenging phase, both players not only have the support of their teammates but also have the chance to lean on their experience to revitalise their prowess and remind the cricketing world of their talent once again. The hope remains that with time and perseverance, both athletes will return to their run-scoring ways, adding more victorious chapters to their storied careers.
