Ajinkya Rahane In The Fray To Make A Comeback For New Zealand ODIs

Team India’s Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane is again in the scheme of things in the ODI format and is line to make a comeback soon. As per a report in Mumbai Mirror, Rahane’s name was discussed by an important member of the team during the selection meeting. Although the selectors decided against naming the squads for the New Zealand ODIs and Tests.

Also Read: AB de Villiers Names Three Best Batsmen He Played With Or Against

One of the reasons behind this is, of course, Prithvi Shaw. The selection committee is awaiting a final word on his fitness. He suffered a shoulder issue during a Ranji Trophy match and was ruled out of the practice matches in New Zealand. Should Shaw be declared fit by January 19, he will be selected in the Test squad ahead of KL Rahul and Shubman Gill.

Another probable reason behind selectors deferring the announcement of the squad is the Australia ODIs. The India-Australia series kicks off later today and the selectors can have a look at the performance of players in this series as well. Although the squad will largely remain the same, there are a couple of slots that are still open for the fringe players.

Rahane, who wasn’t a part of World Cup 2019 squad, has always remained in the scheme of things. His last ODI came against South Africa in 2018. Back then, Indian skipper Virat Kohli had said that he would be Team India’s number four batsman for World Cup but Rahane was dropped. He failed to make a comeback in the ODI squad but unlike other Test specialists, Rahane has said that he wants to make a comeback in white-ball cricket.

Rahane was a part of World Cup 2015 squad. He also played 2014 and 2016 T20 World Cups. On both the occasions, he had replaced Shikhar Dhawan in the playing XI at the later stages of the tournament.

Also Read: Sledging Him Was A Waste Of Time: Tim Paine Reveals The India Player Who Does Not Get Bothered By Sledging

It will be interesting to see if Rahane makes a comeback. Kedar Jadhav, whose place has been questioned of late, might face the axe if Rahane returns into the ODI team. His statemate Suryakumar Yadav is also in the scheme of things for New Zealand ODIs.