'I don’t feel disappointed' - Musheer Khan reacts to missing IPL contract

Young Mumbai batter Musheer Khan accounted why he is not disappointed at missing out on a contract in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Musheer had a memorable year at the U-19 World Cup and in the recently concluded Ranji Trophy. The 19-year-old finished as the second-highest run-scorer at the ICC event, and then converted his maiden first-class hundred into a double-century in Mumbai’s semi-final match against Tamil Nadu. 

Meanwhile, in the summit clash against Vidarbha, he scored a stupendous century and helped Mumbai set a mammoth 538-run target at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. After his Player of the Match performance in the Ranji final, the youngster stated that he is not upset at not having an IPL contract, with Test cricket being his spotlight.

“My name is not in the IPL. But I don’t feel disappointed. My father tells me to play Test cricket and play for Team India. IPL will eventually happen, if not today, then tomorrow. It’s good that I got another year to prepare for the IPL. I will understand T20 cricket more, and how I should prepare for this format,” Musheer was quoted as saying by News18.

Also Read: Ranji Trophy 2024: Musheer Khan becomes youngest Mumbai batter to hit century in final, breaks Sachin Tendulkar's record

Musheer, who is the younger brother of Sarfaraz Khan, stated that the senior pro is his primary source of inspiration. Notably, the elder brother's long-awaited dream came true in February this year when he made his Test debut against England in Rajkot.

“I am really inspired by my brother because of his dedication and the way he bats. Our batting style is similar. He told me before the game (Ranji final) to think of it as a normal match and not to take too much pressure. From outside, it may feel like a normal match but on the field, we feel pressure on the field. He told me to back my skills and follow the process,” he added.

It’s a matter of pride that we have amassed 42 titles: Musheer

The 19-year-old exclaimed joyfully that he is proud to be part of Mumbai’s title-winning season, which marked their record-extending 42nd triumph in India's premier domestic competition.

“It’s a matter of pride that we have amassed 42 titles. Many great players have played here (for Mumbai). I feel very proud that I have played for Mumbai and won a championship. I also want to thank the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) and congratulate them because they have provided us with a lot of support. I hope they continue to back us in the same way,” he said further.

Also Read: 'I am the lowest scorer for my team' — Ajinkya Rahane's humbling words after Ranji Trophy victory

The ace batter went on to speak about Mumbai stalwart Dhawal Kulkarni's services for the team over the years. Notably, the Ranji Trophy final was the final match of his illustrious first-class career.

“The support he (Dhawal) has given to Mumbai cricket, the things he has done for Mumbai, it’s incredible. The speech he gave ahead of the final was a real motivation for all of us. It was his last match. We were emotional, and we wanted to win the trophy as a gift to Dhawal bhai. We wanted him to leave happily. He took the last wicket (of Vidarbha) of the match and everything came out perfectly,” Musheer concluded.