Ranji Trophy Final: MCA to reward Ajinkya Rahane-led Mumbai squad with $600,000 after clinching 42nd title

The Mumbai Ranji team continued its traditional dominance in the Indian domestic circuit by clinching their 42nd title on Thursday (Mar 14).

Mumbai, the most successful team in the history of the Ranji Trophy have been rewarded $600,000 (INR 5 crore) by Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for their success. The reward followed after Mumbai beat state rivals Vidarbha by 139 runs in the final at the Wankhede Stadium.

Mumbai clinch 42nd title

Coming into the match Mumbai were the favourites to win the final. However, Vidarbha’s recent success in the competition, was always going to make the game tough for them. Mumbai led by Ajinkya Rahane was put into bat first in the match, but the decision backfired as they were bowled out for 224.

Vidarbha, however, failed to capitalise on it and secure a victory as their batsmen crumbled for 105, handing the record champions a 119-run lead in the first innings.

The second innings was more competitive as a 136-run knock from Musheer Khan coupled with Ajinkya Rahane’s 95-run knock saw Mumbai score 418 in the second innings. The massive score meant Vidarbha needed 538 runs to win the final. However, like Mumbai, Vidarbha also gave a good response in their second innings as Akshay Wadkar (102), Karun Nair (74) and Harsh Dubey (65) led the foundation for the chase.

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However, they were bowled out for 368 with Player of the Tournament Tanush Kotian scalping four wickets in the second innings. This meant Mumbai won the final by 169 runs to bag their 42nd title in the historic competition. The win also sees Mumbai qualify for the Irani Trophy which will be held at the start of the next domestic campaign.

Rahane reflects on win

“Last year, we didn’t qualify by 1 run, that really hurt us. We knew we had the talent and individuals, but what is important was creating the right culture and attitude. Would like to thank MCA for their support as well. (On personal form) Ups and downs as a part of the game, I never think about myself, it is always team first. I’m the happiest that we are champions despite me being the lowest run scorer for the team this year,” Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane said after winning the Ranji Trophy final.