Amol Muzumdar: Mumbai cricket's unsung hero announces retirement!
Amol Muzumdar amassed 11,167 runs from 171 matches at an average of 48.13, including 30 centuries in his domestic career for Mumbai.
One of India's finest batsman in the domestic circuit, Amol Muzumdar on Friday announced his retirement from all forms.
"It has been an absolutely satisfying feeling. I would describe my long career as good and hugely satisfying," Muzumdar said.
A talented right-handed batsman, the 39-year-old, who started his domestic career with Mumbai in 1993-94 season, amassed 11,167 runs from 171 matches at an average of 48.13, including 30 centuries.
Muzumdar who ended his illustrious 21-year old career never made it to the national side but felt that he came close to earning a Test spot in 1996.
One thing that #AmolMuzumdar always missed, the element of luck. Always dedicated and pursued his talent with passion and sincerity. sachin tendulkar (@sachin_rt) September 25, 2014
Amol's spirit left a mark and batting made a statement. Best wishes and welcome to the band of retired! #AmolMuzumdar sachin tendulkar (@sachin_rt) September 25, 2014
"I dreamt of playing for the country. I would be lying if I said I didn't, but when you step on the field, you only focus on the game even if it is for your club, office, state or country," he said.
"I think the closest I came to India selection was in 1996. I had four consecutive first-class centuries including the one in Irani Trophy," he added.
Muzumdar, who was the next man in for Shardashram English school when Sachin Tendulkar and Vinod Kambli stitched their world-record 664-run partnership, said he got a message from the batting icon and his former Ranji team-mate.
"Sachin Tendulkar sent me a text message and that is the best compliment - The longevity of your career shows your commitment towards the game. It was very sweet of him to send me a text message," he said.
Amol Muzumdar the unsung hero of Mumbai cricket retires leaving behind a tremendous record!Always put his whole heart into his game #Respect Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) September 25, 2014
Coached by the famous Ramakant Achrekar, Muzumdar said he met the Dronacharya awardee in the morning.
"Today morning I met Achrekar Sir and although he did not say much, he smiled and I know he was happy," he said.
He represented Mumbai with distinction for several seasons and led the team to the title in 2006-07. He also played for Assam and Andhra.
Touted as the next Tendulkar, he impressed on his first-class debut for Mumbai, where he made a world record of unbeaten 260 in a Ranji pre-quarterfinal against Haryana.
Muzumdar rated Ravi Shastri as the best captain and said, "he was a great leader. He was very encouraging. I still remember the team meeting we had before the final. We were so pumped up that we wanted to play the Ranji final right there and then."
The former Mumbai player, who had a stint with the Netherlands as their batting coach, said he is eligible to play for the country next year.