Harshad Khadiwale, pillar of Maharashtra batting

Having made his first class debut at 18 eight seasons ago, Maharashtra opener Harshad Khadiwale has finally come of age. Having amassed 930 runs in Maharashtra’s campaign this Ranji Trophy, the 25-year-old right-hander tops the list of batsmen to have scored most runs at the end of the league stage.

With three centuries and four fifties including two scores in the 90s, Khadiwale has turned out to be Maharashtra’s match-winner.

“I am happy I could deliver. It is satisfying to help the team progress to the knockouts,” said Khadiwale, who scored his career best 262 against Goa early this season.

“I should thank my coach (Surendra) Bhave sir, who never questioned my approach. That helped me to play my natural game. One has to play his natural game so that things will fall in place,” said Khadiwale, who is looking forward to taking on Mumbai in the quarterfinals next week. “We are happy we could make it to the quarters, but it is not a big test as many feel. It is just another match,” said Khadiwale.

Coach Bhave was only pleased for his player. “He has been one of the main scorers for the team. His consistency has to be noted,” said the former national selector.