Musheer Khan: You are recognised as a batter in Mumbai only if you convert starts into hundreds

Mumbai’s Musheer Khan celebrates after scoring a century against Haryana. | Photo Credit: EMMANUAL YOGINI

Musheer Khan may have laid the foundation for Mumbai’s imposing first-innings total against Haryana with a century, but the all-rounder was quick to point out that he could have done better. And with his conventional left-arm spin accounting for both Haryana openers towards the end of the second day, Musheer has emerged as Mumbai’s standout performer in the Ranji Trophy Group D clash at the Sharad Pawar Academy ground.

“I am happy, but not satisfied. I could have easily scored a 200,” Musheer said on Tuesday after his 109 helped Mumbai post 430 on Tuesday. It was his fifth first-class hundred.

“This is our home ground and we know how to bat here. But a hundred makes you feel good. I thought I could have converted at least one of the two fifties at the start of the season into a hundred. You are recognised as a batter in Mumbai cricket only if you convert your starts into hundreds. Fifties aren’t good enough.”

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The promising batter had begun the season with a 65 against Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium before scoring 57 against Himachal Pradesh in Bilaspur last week. His century against Haryana, coming in a 208-run second-wicket partnership with Angkrish Raghuvanshi, ensured Mumbai recovered from an early setback and took control of the opening day.

With experienced left-arm spinner Shams Mulani and off-spinner Tanush Kotian leading Mumbai’s spin attack, Musheer sees his role as one of containment as much as wicket-taking.

“I have to play a supporting role to Shams and Tanush. I try to bowl in the same areas and stop the flow of runs. I focus on bowling my stock ball as much as possible,” he said.