Sachin Tendulkar retirement: Want to win Ranji tie as farewell gift for him, says Kaustabh Pawar

As emotions continue to run high in Mumbai camp with Sachin Tendulkar playing in his final Ranji Trophy game, opener Kaustubh Pawar said the players were trying to focus on winning the match against Haryana as a farewell gift to him.

“Emotions are there but he is trying to neglect it so as to focus in the game [against Haryana] … the rest of the teammates are also trying to do that. He does not want that to affect his game. The whole team wants to gift him a win,” Pawar told reporters.

Chasing 240 for victory, Mumbai need another 39 runs on the final day tomorrow to force a win, with Tendulkar remaining unbeaten on 55.

Asked about the match situation, Pawar said losing two wickets late into the final session of play have brought Haryana back into the game.

“We are not on the backfoot but we lost two wickets and that brought them into the game. The team that plays better will win the match. It’s a good pitch for fast bowlers,” he said.

Asked how he felt while batting with Tendulkar, he said, “It’s a dream to bat with him, it’s the second time, the first was in the quarterfinal against Baroda at the Wankhede last season. He gives us useful tips.”

Haryana all-rounder Mohit Sharma felt the match was slightly tilted in his side’s favour.

“I think it is 60 per cent on our side. Morning session tomorrow will be the key. We will have to bowl to a good line and length. An early and the match will be 70 per cent in our grip,” he said.

“As far as conditions are concerned, it is an open ground and there is a lot of moisture, so the bowlers get good swing in the morning. The pitch is playing well, there is a little help for spinners also as it is the third day,” he added.