I am trying my best to get back in team India: Zaheer Khan

Zaheer said it was important for the Mumbai side to start the season on a winning note.

As Sachin Tendulkar signed off his Ranji Trophy career on a winning note,Mumbai captain Zaheer Khan today said the veteran batsman8217;s five-hour vigil in the second innings against Haryana has given him the much-needed practice ahead of his farewell Test series against the West Indies next month.

The retiring legend almost singlehandedly guided Mumbai to a four-wicket victory,scoring an unbeaten 79,in one of the most keenly followed matches in the history of Ranji Trophy,here today.

8220;It8217;s important for Sachin and considering the two Tests against the West Indies next month,this has given him much-needed practice. And remember,Haryana has got a good attack and they bowled a disciplined attack,8221; Zaheer told reporters after the match.

Tendulkar,40,will be walking into international sunset after the rubber against the Caribbean side,and Zaheer has been associated with the veteran for almost a decade and a half.

8220;It8217;s very difficult to sum up my association with Sachin in one minute. It8217;s been very special,his records speak volumes of the man. He has truly been a master.

8220;We just want him to enjoy the last two Tests,the way he has always enjoyed8230;make the most of it.8221;

The left-arm pacer is on a comeback trail and seemed hopeful of returning to the Indian team.

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8220;I am trying to do whatever is in my hand. I have got good match practice by playing the two India A matches.

8220;I am getting better8230;bowling fitness is something I am working on. I am feeling confident,it8217;s just about spending more and more time on the field. Match practice is the best practice as it helps the overall game,8221; he said.

Zaheer was pleased with the pitch at the Chaudhary Bansi Lal Cricket Stadium here.

8220;Good wickets do produce good results. The match lasted till the end,it8217;s a great wicket and they are encouraging signs,8221; he said.

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Both Zaheer and Haryana captain Ajay Jadeja,making a comeback to competitive cricket after more than seven years,felt first-class matches should be organised at smaller venues regularly.

8220;I think we need to take domestic matches to smaller venues. Here we do get people and are blessed to see Sachin play. Matches like these will encourage people.8221;

Zaheer said it was important for the Mumbai side to start the season on a winning note.

Asked about Jadeja8217;s captaincy,Zaheer said,8221;He has led well,made good bowling changes,always kept the pressure. Haryana has got a young side and to have someone with so much experience definitely helps the side.8221;