If I keep performing, I will get a chance: Mulani

For Shams Mulani, an all-round show in Mumbai’s 35-run victory over Jammu & Kashmir in the first round of the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy was business as usual. He contributed 91 at No. 6 in Mumbai’s first innings, and then went on to take seven for 46 in J&K’s second innings to finish with a match haul of nine for 120. The 28-year-old He has been maintaining such high standards for certainly the last three seasons.

On Saturday, with J&K moving along to 84 for two at one stage in pursuit of a target of 243, it was Mulani who made all the crucial breakthroughs. Early on in his spell on the final day, the left-arm spinner cleaned up Paras Dogra with a ripper. Five of his seven victims saw their stumps rearranged.

“Right through the game, I thought the ball was coming out of my hand nicely. If there was even a little help, I felt I could be effective. I tried to use the crease well,” Mulani, who was adjudged player-of-the-match, said.

Despite his consistency, Mulani has been picked for India-A just once — against England Lions in February last year. He even took a five-for in that game.

“My mindset is very clear. I just want to perform for Mumbai. Selection is not in my hands. My job is to perform,” he said when asked about the limited opportunities at a higher level. “Performance never hurts. If I keep putting in such Player-of-the-Match performances, I know that things will be good and that I will get a chance.”