Patient Mulani lives on hope

Shams Mulani has spent the better part of five years knocking on the doors of the Indian team. The Mumbai left-arm spinner has piled up wickets, contributed with the bat and recently earned the Player of the Series award in India A’s first-class series against Australia A. Yet, a senior India call-up remains elusive.

The 29-year-old, however, is in no mood to let the wait get the better of him.

“I am really proud to be playing for Mumbai, and I enjoy playing. There is a different pressure altogether because of the bench strength we have. You cannot afford to lack anywhere when you are playing for Mumbai,” Mulani said after helping the 42-time champions begin their Ranji Trophy campaign with an innings-and-155-run victory over Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium.