'I am the lowest scorer for my team' - Ajinkya Rahane's humbling words after Ranji Trophy victory

India batter Ajinkya Rahane led Mumbai to their historic 42^nd Ranji Trophy triumph on Thursday, March 14 as they beat Vidarbha by 169 runs in the final at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Chasing a massive target of 538 runs, Vidarbha were bundled out for 368 in the fourth innings with captain Akshay Wadkar top-scoring with 102 (199).

Rahane played a brilliant knock of 73 in the second innings of the game after having a disastrous season with the bat where he had scored just one half-century in 12 innings. Following Mumbai’s win, Rahane reflected on his poor form but revealed that he feels the happiest to lift the title despite being the lowest scorer.

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"Even though I am the lowest scorer for my team, I am the happiest to lift the trophy. As a player, you will have ups and downs. It's about creating atmosphere in dressing room and enjoy each other's success. This is a special moment," Rahane said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Rahane also spoke about creating a fitness culture in the team and thanked Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for all the support.

“Last year, we failed to qualify for the knock-outs by one run. We had to create the right culture and attitude in the team. We created a fitness culture and I would thank MCA for providing all the support," he added.

The former India vice-captain further praised BCCI for giving importance to domestic cricket.

"I want to mention one thing about BCCI giving importance to domestic cricket which is a very good thing, telling players to play domestic cricket. Which is very important," he further said.

Musheer Khan won Player of the Match in the final

Notably, Rahane scored 214 runs in the Ranji season from 13 innings at an average of 17.83 with two fifties. Meanwhile, apart from him, 19-year-old Musheer Khan shone with the bat in the final scoring 136 (226) and became the youngest centurion in a Ranji Trophy final breaking legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record.

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Musheer was also adjudged Player of the Match in the final for his century while Mumbai’s Tanush Kotian was awarded Player of the Tournament for scoring 502 runs and picking 29 wickets in the season.