Classy! Wasim Jaffer played for free and powered Vidarbha to Ranji Trophy triumph
Mumbai: Vidarbha cricketer Wasim Jaffer has revealed that he opted to play for newly-crowned Ranji Trophy champions for free of cost.
Jaffer, 39, had a memorable outing for Vidarbha in the final of the Ranji Trophy against Delhi, playing a knock of 78 runs.
Vidarbha celebrate after clinching the @paytm #RanjiTrophy 2017-18 with a nine-wicket win over Delhi #Final #DELvVID pic.twitter.com/UEes6Xb7YS
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 1, 2018
Vidarbha went on to lift the coveted trophy, winning the final by nine wickets.
Vidarbha win their maiden @Paytm #RanjiTrophy in Indore pic.twitter.com/SJMEr3uJEf
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 1, 2018
“I had a contract with them last season (2016-17) where I was to be paid in three instalments -- October, January and March. They wanted me to play a big part in their Ranji Trophy campaign. It didn’t happen due to injury but they never hesitated to pay me,” he was quoted saying to Hindustan Times.
Jaffer was speaking on the sidelines of a felicitation function held by VCA on Friday.
“In October I was unavailable due to injury so they didn’t pay, which was fair. But in January, I was fit to play but they didn’t use my services (for limited-overs tournaments) but they respected my contract and paid me the full amount,” he added.
He has only played 31 Tests, but has scored 11 fifties and five centuries.
“I am very grateful for whatever God has given me; not bothered about what I didn’t get. I believe in destiny, you get what you deserve. I don’t have any regrets, the respect I get wherever I go is highly satisfying.
“I am the highest run-getter in four premier domestic tournaments – Ranji Trophy, Duleep Trophy, Irani Cup and Vijay Hazare – I can’t ask for more.This season has given me a lot of happiness for the way Vidarbha played,” he further continued.
He further made clear on Vidarbha’s visions as a team.
“Vidarbha have a vision to do well. They want their youngsters to do well. Their rise started in 2009 when they set up the residential academy; it showed they wanted to improve their cricket. Three of their players were in the India under-19 team for the Asia Cup,” he said.
“I wanted to go to a place where I had a part to play, make some contribution to their cricket by guiding youngsters. I have made the right decision,” he added.
