Ajinkya Rahane emphasizes fitness at Mumbai Cricket Association’s off-season camp – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Skipper Ajinkya Rahane underscored the importance of fitness and skill development during the off-season, urging players to utilize the Mumbai Cricket Association’s (MCA) three-month training camp effectively. The camp, themed ‘Home of the Champions’, aims to prepare players for the upcoming season.

Rahane, who led Mumbai to their record-extending win in the Ranji Trophy last season, stressed the significance of behind-the-scenes work for on-field success. Speaking to the media, he highlighted the camp’s potential to inspire young cricketers to continue Mumbai’s legacy of excellence across all age groups.

“Working on fitness and on your own game plan, because this is the time when you can actually focus on what areas you want to improve as an individual,” Rahane said. “Once the season starts, it is all about what the team requires from you. These 2-3 months are all about getting better as individuals in terms of fitness and skills.”

He also praised the MCA’s decision to appoint former bowler Dhawal Kulkarni as the bowling mentor for all teams across age groups, both men and women.

“It is a very good gesture from MCA. He has played Mumbai for so many years, he has represented India and I am sure that will be of help,” Rahane stated. “He has the ability of spotting the talent from various age groups and developing them. I am sure he will find good bowlers for Mumbai and India.”

Rahane will also be playing County cricket in England with Leicestershire to maintain match fitness during this period. “Playing matches at this stage is important. I will work on my fitness for a month and will go to Leicester for County matches,” he confirmed. “For me it is all about having those matches under my belt before our domestic season starts otherwise it becomes too long a gap and you hardly get anytime to (address) whatever areas you want to improve.”

Meanwhile, during the camp’s inauguration, India batter Sarfaraz Khan addressed the players, emphasizing the importance of focus and perseverance.

“I would get frustrated in between thinking I was not getting that opportunity (to play for India), but my father would tell me to focus on performing — to think as if I am playing for India even if I am playing Ranji Trophy and thus I would only focus on performing,” Sarfaraz shared, highlighting the mental resilience needed to succeed.

The camp aims to prepare Mumbai’s cricketers for another successful season, with an emphasis on fitness, skill development, and mental toughness.

(With inputs from PTI)