In the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2023/24, Mumbai's left-arm spinner, Shams Mulani, has expressed his admiration for the exceptional leadership skills demonstrated by skipper Ajinkya Rahane. Despite facing challenges with the bat, Rahane's captaincy has served as a source of inspiration for the team, contributing significantly to Mumbai's impressive performance in the tournament.
Mulani, who serves as Rahane's deputy in the leadership group, recently had the opportunity to lead 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 leading 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," Mulani expressed.
Despite Rahane's struggle with the bat, Mulani emphasized that the leadership qualities displayed by the captain have never been in doubt. 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. Mulani pointed out that Rahane's leadership played a pivotal role in Mumbai's success, and he drew attention to India's remarkable Test series win against Australia in 2020-21 as a testament to Rahane's leadership prowess.
Shams Mulani provided insights into Mumbai's recent form in the Ranji Trophy, reflecting on the team's journey and 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 arise 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 remarked.
Mulani further highlighted the experience brought in by players, excluding a few who are engaged with India A and the national team. He stressed how this experience proves invaluable during crucial moments in the Ranji Trophy.
"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," Mulani added.
Despite a recent defeat to Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai's position in the points table remains unchanged. In that match, Mumbai scored 198 in their first innings, with Shams Mulani top-scoring with 57. Aaqib Khan and Ankit Rajpoot picked three wickets each. In reply, Uttar Pradesh scored 324, with Nitish Rana, the captain, scoring an aggressive 106.
A stunning 117 from all-rounder Shivam Dube ensured that Mumbai scored 320 in the second innings. Despite the defeat, Mumbai's legacy as a cricket powerhouse remains intact, boasting an impressive tally of 41 Ranji Trophy titles, the latest secured in 2015/16. 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.
Mayank Agarwal hospitalized
In another development, Mayank Agarwal, the right-handed batter leading Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy 2024, suffered a significant health issue on a flight to Surat from Agartala. The 32-year-old was admitted to the ICU after complaining of a burning sensation in his mouth and throat immediately after drinking from a bottle.
According to Times Now, Mayank Agarwal is stable and under the care of a doctor in the ICU at the ILS hospital. The incident occurred after Karnataka's 29-run victory over Tripura, where Agarwal led the team. He has been in good form in the tournament, scoring 460 runs at an average of 44.28, with two centuries in four matches.
Karnataka, currently second in Group C of the Elite Group with 15 points from four games, will face Railways at the Lalbhai Contractor Stadium in Surat from February 2. Mayank Agarwal has been an integral part of the Indian Test team, having played 21 matches and amassing 1488 runs at an average of above 40, with four centuries. He last played a Test match for India against Sri Lanka in March 2022 and is set to play for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2024.
However, a concerning twist has emerged in Mayank Agarwal's health issue. He has filed a complaint with the Agartala police, suspecting foul play behind his condition. The Indian opener, who was travelling to Delhi after the game against Tripura, has lodged a complaint, and the police are currently investigating the matter. Mayank's participation in the next game against Railways is doubtful, and he may return to Bengaluru for further treatment.
Mayank Agarwal's health issue adds an unexpected dimension to the ongoing Ranji Trophy, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties that can arise even off the cricket field. As the investigation unfolds, the cricketing community awaits further developments in Mayank Agarwal's health and the circumstances surrounding his sudden illness.
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