Mumbai cricket as strong as ever: Vengsarkar

Mumbai:

Mumbai may no longer enjoy the pre-eminent status in Indian cricket, but former India captain and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar has sought to dispel the notion that the game has declined in the metropolis.

"There are some people who are having their doubts about Mumbai Cricket but I still feel Mumbai Cricket is as strong as ever", Vengsarkar said at the MIG Club in Bandra last night at a prize distribution function in which he was the chief guest.

Mumbai, then Bombay, dominated the national scene from the late 1950s to the early 1970s by clinching a world record 15 Ranji Trophy titles on the trot and also had the lion's share of members in the national team.

Mumbai's total haul of 38 national titles is miles ahead of second-placed Delhi's seven crowns, but of late-leave aside Sachin Tendulkar or Zaheer Khan-no other player has cemented a permanent place in the Indian side.

Vengsarkar, who is set to contest for retaining his post as vice president in the Mumbai Cricket Association's elections on July 10, also recalled the olden days when all top cricketers from the city used to take part in tournaments like the Talim Shield.