"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 on Wednesday 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.

"All great cricketers used to participate in local tournaments and that helped in shaping many young cricketers. I also benefited from these tournaments," the former middle order stylist said.

"After retiring from first class cricket stalwarts like Vijay Manjrekar, Ramakant Desai and Madhav Mantri used to take part in local tournaments and, watching them, the youngsters learned a lot. I feel today's cricketers also should take a leaf out of their book," he added.

Talim Shield tournament, founded by Manohar More, Bhaalchandra Patil and Ramesh Donde, has a history of more than 60 years and is considered in some quarters as the world's first-ever limited overs tournament.

The other two events for which prizes were distributed were Young Comrade and Mahim Dadar Challenge Shield tournaments.