Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has appointed Dhawal Kulkarni as the bowling mentor for the Mumbai Ranji team across all formats for the upcoming 2024-25 season. The decision was made following a meeting of the MCA’s apex council on Wednesday.
Kulkarni, who recently retired from all forms of cricket, has had a distinguished career leading Mumbai’s pace attack. His efforts were instrumental in Mumbai clinching their 42nd Ranji Trophy title last season. Over his career, Kulkarni played 12 ODIs and two T20Is for India between 2014 and 2016. In first-class cricket, he amassed 285 wickets in 96 matches. His List A career saw him claim 223 wickets in 130 games, and he took 154 wickets in 162 T20 matches.
Following his retirement, Kulkarni hinted at a potential coaching career, reflecting on his desire to stay connected with cricket. “I’ve not thought about it much but cricket has given me so much that I want to give it back to the game, whether it be coaching or whatever role that I get. So everything I do in the future, it will be around cricket,” he stated after Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy triumph at the Wankhede Stadium.
Kulkarni’s recent experience as a commentator in the Indian Premier League has also provided him with insights into the game’s evolving strategies, which he will bring into his new role as a mentor.
In addition to Kulkarni’s appointment, the MCA’s apex council also decided to honor legendary batsman and former India captain Sunil Gavaskar on his 75th birthday, which falls on July 10. The proposal, put forward by MCA president Amol Kale, was unanimously approved.
“We have appointed Dhawal Kulkarni as the bowling mentor for the upcoming season. Additionally, Mr. Amol Kale (president) proposed and the Apex Council unanimously approved to honour Mr. Sunil Gavaskar on his 75th birthday,” said MCA secretary Ajinkya Naik.
The meeting also concluded with plans to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the iconic Wankhede Stadium. The MCA will release a commemorative stamp and a coffee table book to mark the occasion. The Wankhede Stadium, one of cricket’s most revered venues, has witnessed countless historic moments and continues to be a hub of cricketing excellence.
As the 2024-25 season approaches, Mumbai’s cricketing fraternity is buzzing with excitement. Kulkarni’s transition from player to mentor is seen as a significant step in nurturing the next generation of cricketers. His vast experience and understanding of the game are expected to benefit the young bowlers in the team.
Honouring Sunil Gavaskar and celebrating the Wankhede Stadium’s milestone also highlights the MCA’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating the rich history and contributions of its cricketing legends and institutions. These initiatives not only pay tribute to the past but also inspire the future of cricket in Mumbai.
