Veteran batsman Wasim Jaffer says personal records give him lot of satisfaction but 'winning is everything'

Wasim Jaffer played 31 Tests for India, scored 1,944 runs and also amassed two double tons in Tests including one against Pakistan but his international numbers are a minuscule contribution in comparison to his humongous service to India cricket, especially at the domestic level.

The 40-year-old is undoubtedly a domestic stalwart. Jaffer made his First-Class debut in 1996 and has since played 245 matches. He also captained mighty Mumbai and currently plays for Vidarbha, who he led to Ranji Trophy title earlier this year. He won the title eight times earlier with Mumbai.

File image of Wasim Jaffer. PTI

The veteran opener recently became the first batsman to score 11,000 runs in Ranji Trophy. However, personal records count for very little to him and in an interview with CricketNext, Jaffer said helping his team achieve victories makes him feel good.

"I am the highest run-getter in Ranji Trophy, Duleep Trophy and Irani Trophy. It gives me a lot of satisfaction and happiness. I will be lying if I say records don't really matter to me. But the more important thing is the team I am playing for, I want to contribute and make sure... winning is everything! If you score runs or take wickets but your team does not win then there's no point of creating records. If my performance is helping the team to win then it feels quite good," Jaffer said.

After such an accomplished career, one would think Jaffer has had enough of cricket but the right-handed batsman has no intention to stop anytime soon.

"I just want to go out there and play and help these youngsters or the team that I am playing for. If I am making a contribution or difference to the team, it makes me happy. Doesn't matter if I am 30 or 40, if I am doing my job then that's all that matters. As long as I stay fit and keep that motivation up, it's all worthwhile."

Jaffer also shared that he works hard at gym and takes proper care of his diet to keep up with youngsters and to continue playing cricket at his best.