Mumbai cricket’s stalwart, Dhawal Kulkarni, has decided to retire at the end of the current Ranji Trophy season. Earlier reports suggested that he would announce his retirement after Mumbai’s last group league fixture against Assam, but he didn’t play in that game. Kulkarni revealed that the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), selectors, and coaches requested him to stay for the entire season, and he plans to retire after the knockout phase.
The 35-year-old fast bowler, who represented India in 12 ODIs and a couple of T20Is between 2014 and 2016, has been a key part of Mumbai’s successful Ranji Trophy-winning teams in the 2008-09, 2009-10, 2012-13, and 2015-16 seasons. In the current Ranji Trophy edition, Kulkarni played three games, taking seven wickets. Mumbai’s selectors and team management value his experience as they head into the knockout stage.
Expressing his commitment, Kulkarni said, “My experience as a senior player might help the team during the knockouts, which is the most important phase of the tournament. As and when I will be required to play, I will play and will retire after the last game.”
Kulkarni has been mentoring fast bowlers of Mumbai
Throughout the season, Kulkarni has been mentoring Mumbai’s fast bowlers, providing guidance and sharing his insights. Despite featuring in 95 first-class games and representing Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, and Gujarat Lions in the IPL, Kulkarni couldn’t secure a spot in the Test squad.
Reflecting on his career, Kulkarni mentioned, “That’s one thing I could not get. I have always dreamed of it. Though I was there, unfortunately, I did not get a go at it. That was not in my hands. I gave my best in these 17 years. Even now, I will try to contribute to Mumbai cricket and India in whatever way possible.”
Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane, who has known Kulkarni since their U-16 days, praised him for his fantastic contribution to Mumbai cricket, describing him as a role model for fast bowlers. Rahane acknowledged Kulkarni’s influence and the positive impact he has had on the team.
