In a move that has sparked excitement among cricket enthusiasts, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has decided to boost the prize money for the triumphant Mumbai team ensuing their victory in the Ranji Trophy 2023-2024 final.
After a stellar performance ending in an emphatic 169-run win against Vidarbha at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai clinched the coveted title for the 42nd time after a dry spell of eight-years since last win in the 2015/16 season.
Mumbai’s Players Show Prowess
Mumbai cricket team, formerly called the Bombay cricket team set a formidable target of 538 runs and ultimately bowling out their opponents for 368 runs on Day 3.
Musheer Khan of Mumbai earned the prestigious title of ‘Player of the Match’ for his stellar performance in the final, showcasing exceptional batting prowess with a brilliant century and contributing with two crucial wickets.
Tanush Kotian and Tushar Deshpande’s historical innings played a pivotal part in sealing Mumbai’s fate in the finals of the Ranji Trophy 2024.
Vidarbha’s skipper Akshay Wadkar’s valiant century couldn’t salvage the team against their menacing opponents.
Double the Money, Twice the celebration!
MCA President Amol Kale and Apex Council has decided to double the Ranji Trophy prize money with an additional Rs 5 crore for the Mumbai team players to mark their remarkable feat.
“It has been a great year for the MCA as the league has already won 7 titles and made it to knockout stage in all BCCI tournaments in all age groups.” said the statement.
Ajinkya Rahane etched his name in Mumbai cricket history by becoming the 26th captain to lead his team to win the prestigious Ranji Trophy.
Prize Money to solve Employment Crisis?
Omkar Salvi, the head coach of the Mumbai team, lauded the Mumbai Cricket Association’s decision to double the prize money for the Ranji Trophy winners. Salvi expressed that this gesture will help secure young players financially.
Salvi further mentioned the challenges faced by players in today’s cricketing landscape, where job opportunities are meagre.
He stated that BCCI’s decision to increase the prize money serves as both inspiration and security, empowering players to focus on their game with greater confidence and commitment.
Mumbai and Ranji’s long history
Held annually by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), The Ranji Trophy stands as a testament to India’s rich cricketing history. It hosts participation from 38 teams, representing at least one team from every state and four of the nation’s eight union territories.
Started in the 1934-35 season, Mumbai, emerged as the premier champions and sustained that title for the next year, showcasing their grit and dominance.
Mumbai boasts an astonishing 42 titles, evidence to their unrivalled supremacy as Karnataka trails far behind on the second rank with eight triumphs.
Shreyas Iyer’s viral Dance
After the sparkling win, Shreyas Iyer’s dance moves stole the spotlight as the team rejoiced in jubilation. Iyer’s dynamic performance playing a pivotal role in the triumph.
Despite a modest start in the first innings, Iyer’s spectacular knock of 95 off 111 balls in the second innings propelled Mumbai towards glory.
Rahane was blessed with a team that included players like Shreyas Iyer and Shardul Thakur.
Playing XIs
Mumbai: Prithvi Shaw, Bhupen Lalwani, Musheer Khan, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Tamore (wk), Shams Mulani, Shardul Thakur, Tanush Kotian, Tushar Deshpande, Dhawal Kulkarni.
Vidarbha: Mohit Avasthi, Sylvester DSouza, Suved Parkar, Amogh Bhatkal, Prasad Pawar, Suryansh Shedge, Atharva Ankolekar, Shivam Dube, Jay Gokul Bista, Royston Dias.
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