The first batsman to score 12,000 runs in Ranji Trophy cricket, Wasim Jaffer will go down in history as one the legends in domestic cricket of India. The Vidarbha cricketer holds the record for being the highest run-scorer in Ranji Trophy cricket. In addition to that, Wasim Jaffer also has the most number of centuries to his name in first-class cricket.
The former Indian cricketer has played 31 test matches for India, scoring 1944 runs at an average of 34.1. He has struck centuries against Pakistan, England, South Africa and West Indies- 5 in total.
Though Jaffer’s international career wasn’t a tumultuous one, he was a domestic cricket stalwart. Knowing his chances of receiving an Indian call-up was zero to none, Jaffer kept piling runs in domestic cricket until one day he hung his boots at 42, bidding adieu to the game he loves the most.
“I think I had a lot of chances. I came very close to those chances. But unfortunately, the comeback didn’t happen. This happens with most cricketers, not just me. They feel they deserve to be there but do not get the opportunity because unfortunately somebody else is there to pick you and they decide certain things. But to be honest I have taken all that in my stride. I am a firm believer in destiny,” Jaffer was quoted as saying in Hindustan Times.
Jaffer announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in March 2020. While he has scored tons of runs in the first-class cricket, would he recommend someone to play the same brand of cricket, at a time when things in cricket are changing too quickly?
“I think the time has changed. A lot of importance is given to T20 cricket. The people who are in the marketing business or advertising business want somebody who is seen more on the TV, somebody who is glamorous or someone who plays the brand of cricket the crowd likes.”
“But you can’t devalue someone who plays T20 cricket because that’s the demand of the game nowadays. What I feel is, in today’s age and day, the cricketer needs to adapt himself to all three formats. You can’t just play Test cricket or you can’t just play T20 cricket. You will be recognised and respected only if you fit in all three formats.” He added.
