Fri Dec 13 11:22:24 UTC 2024: ## Rahane Blasts 98, Powers Mumbai into Syed Mushtaq Ali Final

**Bengaluru, [Date]:** Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane continued his sensational form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, smashing a 98-run knock to propel Mumbai into the final. His explosive innings, studded with 11 fours and five sixes, came off just 56 balls, including a remarkable 74 runs from 16 balls through boundaries alone, at a strike rate of 175.

This was Rahane’s fifth half-century of the tournament and his 48th in T20 cricket overall, securing him his third consecutive Man of the Match award. Mumbai comfortably chased down Baroda’s 158/7, winning by six wickets. Rahane’s partnership with Shreyas Iyer steered Mumbai to victory in 17.2 overs.

Rahane’s outstanding performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has been nothing short of remarkable. In eight matches, he has amassed 432 runs at an incredible average of 61.71 and a strike rate of 169.41. He is the only batsman to cross the 400-run mark in the tournament. His consistent high scores throughout the tournament include: 13 (vs Goa), 52 (vs Maharashtra), 68 (vs Kerala), 95 (vs Andhra), 84 (vs Vidarbha), and now his latest 98 (vs Baroda).

At 36, Rahane’s resurgence is raising eyebrows and fueling speculation about a potential return to the Indian T20 team. His form also bodes well for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who acquired him for ₹1.5 crore in the mega auction. Given his captaincy experience with Rajasthan Royals, the Indian team, and Mumbai, there is even talk of him potentially leading KKR in IPL 2025.

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