In a heartfelt gesture, Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur paid tribute to his long-time Mumbai teammate Dhawal Kulkarni, who is set to bid adieu to the game after the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024 final between Mumbai and Vidarbha at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.

The 32-year-old all-rounder, who has so far represented India in all three formats, acknowledged Kulkarni's role in shaping his career from a young age.

After the end of the opening day's play, Thakur lauded Kulkarni's mentorship and expressed, "It (playing his last FC game) was (an) extremely emotional moment for him and me also."

"I have watched him since childhood. He has helped me also at times with my bowling. When I did not have money to buy the shoes, he gave me a few pairs of shoes also. So, he has helped me a lot," he added.

Reflecting on his journey, Thakur expressed, "I love to play in tough situations, tough conditions. The kind of life that I have lived travelling far from Palghar to Mumbai with the kit bag on the train. You know it was not easy.

"I have watched him since childhood. He has helped me also at times with my bowling. When I did not have money to buy the shoes, he gave me a few pairs of shoes also. So, he has helped me a lot," he added.

Reflecting on his journey, Thakur expressed, "I love to play in tough situations, tough conditions. The kind of life that I have lived travelling far from Palghar to Mumbai with the kit bag on the train. You know it was not easy.