Shreyas Iyer played his part in Mumbai clinching the coveted Ranji Trophy for the 41st time. The 21-year-old batsman struck a timely century in the final against Saurashtra to set Mumbai on a strong footing, which was a big factor in his side having the last laugh in the summit clash.
Shreyas, who fell short of VVS Laxman’s record of most Ranji runs in one season, amassing 1,321 runs at an average of 73.38, spoke about Mumbai’s big moment and much more in an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda.
Here are the excerpts:
Q: How would you sum up Mumbai’s 41st Ranji Trophy triumph?
It was a great win for Mumbai – we had a new team in place after having quite a few players coming and going out of the team last season. I thought we really gelled as a unit – there is great camaraderie in the side – we had a lot of group discussions as part of our preparations throughout the season – all these really helped us.
Q: You scored 1,321 runs at an average of 73.38, slamming four hundreds and seven fifties. Do you think your batting exploits will help you catch the attention of the national selectors?
Look, my job is to score and I will look to remain as consistent as possible. I will let the selectors do their job and not think too much about my selection in the Indian team – the national team is doing quite well and I will wait for my opportunity.
Q: You played many crucial knocks in the 2015-16 Ranji Trophy season - which knock has been most satisfying for you?
I would rate my 117 against Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy final at Pune. Nothing can match the significance of that innings as my team needed it the most. I also cherish my double century against Punjab, as it was my first time I had scored a double ton.
Q: Mumbai team is going through a transition phase. Do you think this Ranji Trophy triumph was just what the doctor ordered?
Winning the Ranji Trophy is a matter of pride for us and I’m sure we will get only better going forward. There are plenty of positives we can take from the Ranji season and can get even better in future.
Q: How would you assess the standard of bowling in the Indian domestic circuit?
I think our bowling standard is pretty good – the country has great spinners and when we encounter a turning track it is not easy to get on top of our spinners. Again if we are up against a seaming deck it’s not easy negotiating our seamers. All bowlers who are vying for a national berth play in the domestic cricket and it is always a challenge facing these bowlers.
Q: The 2015-16 Ranji Trophy season saw a state like Assam reach the semifinals. Do you think the weaker teams are fast bridging the gap between the traditionally formidable sides?
Look, no team can be taken lightly. On any given day any side can be beaten. Assam team deserve credit for making it to the semifinals.
Q: Which bowler impressed you the most during the 2015-16 Ranji season?
Jaidev Unadkat – he looked the part in the Ranji Trophy final. It’s not about the Ranji final only - he has been consistent throughout the 2015-16 season.
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