Musheer Khan strikes back, converts U-19 World Cup final grief into match-saving century for Ajinkya Rahane’s team

Sarfaraz Khan's brother Musheer Khan notched his maiden First-Class century when it mattered the most, steering Mumbai out of trouble on Friday, February 23, in the Ranji Trophy quarter-final against Baroda at Mumbai's BKC Ground. 

Musheer Khan induces Mumbai's recovery

Displaying resilience, Khan scored his hundred off 181 deliveries, deviating from his usual aggressive playstyle by hitting just six boundaries and earning the bulk of his runs through diligent running between the wickets.

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Lone warrior Musheer

Batting at number three, Musheer, who while captaining for India lost U-19 World Cup final against Australia, stood out as the lone warrior for Mumbai in the initial 80 overs of the match, being the only player to score over 30. This came at a time when Mumbai's notable players, including Prithvi Shaw with 33 runs and captain Ajinkya Rahane, who only managed three runs, struggled to leave a significant impact in the quarter-final clash.

Musheer Khan forged a crucial 43-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Suryansh Shedge, who contributed 20 runs, and then went on to build his first half-century partnership of the match with wicketkeeper Hardik Tamore, whose resilient batting anchored one end. Despite Mumbai finding themselves in a precarious position at 142 for 5, Musheer's steady innings propelled them towards a respectable first innings score.

Mumbai without Shivam Dube and Shreyas Iyer

This match marked only Musheer Khan's fourth first-class appearance for Mumbai, and it comes in just his second year at this level. With several key players absent, including Shivam Dube and Shreyas Iyer due to injuries, and Sarfaraz Khan on national duty, the young Musheer rose to the occasion, showcasing his talent on a significant platform.

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Overcoming the disappointment of the U19 World Cup final loss earlier in the month, Musheer Khan has quickly adapted and embraced the chance to prove his mettle in first-class cricket, signaling a promising future.

Notably, at the start of the day, a moment of silence lasting two minutes was held in memory of the late former Maharashtra Chief Minister and President of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), Manohar Joshi. In tribute, the Mumbai team donned black armbands as they took to the field to honor his memory.

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