Ajinkya Rahane's Exclusion from Limited-Overs Surprising - Dilip Vengsarkar

The former India skipper, Dilip Vengsarkar is surprised over the exclusion of Ajinkya Rahane from the limited-overs set up for the England tour.

Vengsarkar rues Rahane’s absence

Vengsarkar believes it is crucial to have a batsman who can hold one end in the 50-overs format. Thus, Rahane was the ideal choice in the vulnerable looking Indian middle-order.

Furthermore, Vengsarkar said it would be a golden opportunity for the Indian team to come up good in the England conditions. The former right-hander added the limited overs matches before the Tests will help the Indian team in getting acclimatised to the English conditions.

Indian team has a great chance in England, says Vengsarkar.

However, Vengsarkar showed his surprise at the ouster of Ajinkya Rahne from the ODI and T20I squad.

“I am really surprised [at Rahane’s exclusion]. It is a 50-over game and somebody has to stay around for a long time. Rahane was the right person to hold the middle-order. It is unfortunate,” he said while talking to Sportstar.

The former legendary batsman went on to add it would be a golden opportunity for the Indian team to come up roses in England.

Vengsarkar said it would be crucial to get used to the conditions at the earliest.

“India has got a great chance in England, there is no question about that. How quickly they adapt to English conditions is important. I am glad that they will be playing the One-Day Internationals first. There will be enough matches before they head to the Test matches. They will get accustom to it,” Vengsarkar said.

Vengsarkar also shared his opinion on the Yo-Yo test. He went on to add the players should get second chances to clear the fitness test.

Recently, Ambati Rayudu and Sanju Samson were left out after they could not pass the fitness test.

“Every cricketer needs to be fit at the international level. But I believe they all must get another opportunity to clear the test, in another 10 days or so. I am sure they will do something. This way, the cricketers can always get a chance to be a part of the team,” Vengsarkar concluded.