Ranji Trophy quarters: Ajinkya Rahane hits hundred to celebrate special 200 in style

Ajinkya Rahane once again proved why he’s one of India’s most reliable and accomplished cricketers as he led Mumbai from the front in their Ranji Trophy quarter-final against Haryana in Kolkata. On Tuesday, February 11, Rahane scored a brilliant second-innings century, guiding Mumbai closer to a spot in the semi-finals.

Starting his innings with an unbeaten 88 on Day 2, Rahane reached his 29th first-class century during the morning session. It was a special achievement for the seasoned batter, as this match marked his 200th first-class appearance. Rahane’s century was a testament to his consistency and skill, making his milestone even more memorable.

The knock was crucial for Mumbai, who were already in a strong position, and Rahane’s presence at the crease gave them the platform to push the lead beyond 300 runs. His composed innings was a defining factor in setting up a dominant position for Mumbai, and with his dismissal for 108 by Anuj Thakarai, the defending champions looked set to secure a place in the semi-finals.

Rahane's century in this quarter-final added to his impressive tally of 41 first-class centuries, which includes 12 in Test cricket. With every passing game, Rahane inches closer to another major milestone: he is nearing 14,000 runs in red-ball cricket, a feat that highlights his longevity and exceptional career in the longer format.

What makes Rahane’s achievement even more special is that his contributions continue to inspire Mumbai and Indian cricket as a whole. From his early days in domestic cricket to becoming a stalwart of the Indian Test team, Rahane’s journey is a reflection of his dedication, work ethic, and passion for the game.

As Mumbai now eyes the semi-finals, Ajinkya Rahane’s contribution with the bat has once again underlined his importance to the team. With his wealth of experience and consistency, he remains a key figure in both Mumbai’s and India’s cricketing future.