Ajinkya Rahane Focussed On Playing ODI Cricket Again

There remains no doubt that Ajinkya Rahane is a vital part of India’s Test team having played some impressive knocks in overseas Tests. Ajinkya Rahane also serves as the vice-captain of the team and is a composed deputy to the aggressive Virat Kohli. Moving forward, the right-handed batsman remains ingrained in getting back to the 50-over side too.

Also Read: KKR Not Overdependent On Andre Russell: Prasidh Krishna

Ajinkya Rahane last played an ODI in February 2018 during India’s tour of South Africa, having debuted in 2011. As for his record in the format, the 32-year-old averages 35.26 in 87 ODIs, which is decent enough. Rahane, who plays as an opener, averages 36.55 in 54 innings and scored three centuries alongside 15 fifties while doing so. Nevertheless, his strike rate of 78.36, which remains slightly on the lower side caused to face an axe.

Despite that, Ajinkya Rahane’s goal remains to play ODI cricket again and affirms that his record before getting dropped was good. The Maharasthra-born added that he has faith in himself while people keep talking about averages and strike rates.

“I am hopeful of making a comeback in white ball cricket. If you see my record before getting dropped in ODIs, it was really good actually. People talk about strike rate and averages. Before getting dropped from 50-over cricket, it was really good. I have faith in myself rather than what people are saying,” the right-handed batsman stated as quoted by Hindustan Times.

I have not batted for five to six months: Ajinkya Rahane

Ajinkya Rahane, who is in Dubai gearing up to play for Delhi Capitals in the upcoming IPL edition, revealed that he has not batted in five to six months. He mentioned that during the lockdown imposed due to the COVID-19, the 32-year-old resorted to meditation and doing visualisation; however, no cricketing skills. Rahane concluded that attitude, work ethic, and discipline would be crucial for the upcoming IPL season.

“I have not batted for five to six months. I was only doing visualisation, meditation but no cricketing skills. I think the attitude and work ethics will be really important this time. Also, discipline and following all the rules on and off the field is going to be a challenge,” he added.

Also Read: I Would Love To Play In PSL: Chris Woakes