Salman Khan’s double ton puts him on the verge of Ranji Trophy team selection | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Batsman Salman Khan will give selectors a happy headache when they sit down to pick the Rajasthan squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy season. Salman’s name will be among the top players for the elite domestic tournament after the 22-year-old smashed a blistering double century during the Colvin Shield Senior Tournament.
The Rajasthan Ranji Trophy team will be picked on the basis of performance in the tournament.
Playing for Jhalawar district against Baran, Salman scored 204 not out off just 134 balls, including 23 boundaries and one six.
“I wanted to bat for long and make quick runs. Double ton was not in mind but yes, a century was. When I reached triple figures, I told myself ‘let’s go for a double ton’. I didn’t experiment much, kept the same approach and plan, and it worked well for me,” Salman told Timesofindia.com in an exclusive interview.
“I wanted to score from the word go; that’s how I had planned (my innings). Ranji Trophy selection is the only thing in my mind. I am sure this double ton will get me a place in the (Rajasthan) squad,” he said.

Riding on Salman’s unbeaten double century, Jhalawar put up a mammoth 372 for 3. In reply, just three balls could be delivered in Baran innings before rain washed out the match.
“I was disappointed with the result. I wanted my team to win by a huge margin but rain spoiled the result. But I am very happy with my performance. I am confident that I will make it to the Rajasthan Ranji team,” Salman, who has played 12 first-class matches and scored 540 runs at an average of 28.42, including one century and three fifties, said.
‘DRAVID JUST A CALL AWAY’
Salman was part of the India Under-19 Asia Cup team in 2016 (in Sri Lanka) and in 2017 (Malaysia). He was also part of the India Under-19 team that toured England in 2017.
During his under-19 days, Salman had the chance to interact with the team’s then coach and batting legend Rahul Dravid. In fact, whenever he is in doubt, he takes batting tips and guidance from the batting stalwart.
“The most important thing I learned from Dravid sir is discipline. He has taught me how to rotate the strike when your team requires runs. Under-19 days were a huge learning period for me with him. I still call him and take advice from him. He is a great human being, coach and mentor. He is always a call away for me,” Salman signed off.