Dhawal Kulkarni Bids Farewell to Cricket with Stellar Performance in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy Victory

Mumbai, 15th March 2024: Dhawal Kulkarni bid adieu to cricket on a high note, showcasing his prowess with a stellar performance (3-15 & 1-38) in Mumbai’s triumphant 42nd Ranji Trophy title win. His retirement drew heartfelt praise from none other than Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, who hailed him as “Mumbaicha yodha” (Mumbai’s warrior) on Instagram.

Kulkarni’s career epitomized resilience and excellence, especially in crucial moments. His standout performances often occurred during the Ranji Trophy finals, where he played pivotal roles in Mumbai’s victories. Notably, he was involved in six finals, clinching victory in five of them.

In the 2008-09 final against Uttar Pradesh, his 5-76 in the second innings steered Mumbai to a resounding 243-run win. In the 2009-10 final versus Karnataka, his 87-run innings salvaged Mumbai from a precarious position, contributing to their six-run victory. His remarkable spell of 9-56 (4-24 & 5-32) in the 2012-13 final against Saurashtra underscored his dominance.

Reflecting on his cherished moments, Kulkarni highlighted his first Ranji title win and his farewell triumph as particularly special. Despite his significant contributions, many believed Kulkarni deserved more opportunities at the international level, with just 12 ODIs and two T20Is to his name.

Regarding his limited international appearances, Kulkarni remained pragmatic, focusing on the future rather than dwelling on missed opportunities. He acknowledged the challenge and strived for improvement without lamenting over past decisions. Kulkarni’s dedication and perseverance were evident throughout his career, as he consistently aimed to excel on the field, driven by personal growth rather than external comparisons.