India women’s cricket team head coach Amol Muzumdar addressed young athletes at the Times Cricket Shield prize distribution ceremony held at Wankhede Stadium on Friday.
The event celebrated the 96th year of the historic tournament, which first began in 1930.
Muzumdar reflected on his own career, specifically his debut for Sungrace Mafatlal in 1993, while speaking to the Yahoo Sports report.
He shared advice from former India batter Sandeep Patil, who challenged him to score double centuries rather than settling for hundreds.
Muzumdar recalled that Patil told him, “If you have the guts, score a double hundred, then I’ll accept it.”
Although his debut innings ended at 97, Muzumdar went on to achieve a world-record 260 on his first-class debut for Mumbai in 1994.
During his speech, he provided three core lessons for aspiring cricketers, emphasizing that they must respect the game to receive respect in return.
He also encouraged players to embrace failure as a natural part of their professional development.
Muzumdar noted that the tournament serves as a vital platform for local talent, stating, “It’s not just a tournament, but an institution.”
Former India batter Jatin Paranjape also attended the event and praised the tournament for its significant impact on Mumbai club cricket.
The ceremony recognized champions across six divisions, including Bank of Baroda Sports Team in the A Division and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd Sports Club in the B Division.
Other winners included Chowgule Sports Club, Vihang Enterprises, Group Satellite Cricket Club, and Agribid Private Limited in their respective categories.
The event was supported by celebration partners Heineken 0.0 and Sterling Reserve Packaged Drinking Water.
Muzumdar concluded by reiterating that playing in the tournament was a privilege throughout his career, which spanned until 2013.
His remarks highlighted the enduring legacy of the Times Shield in shaping the landscape of Indian domestic cricket.