IPL 2019: I Have Never Complained About My Batting Slot - Ajinkya Rahane

The Indian National Cricket team’s no four slot is still up for grabs with only two months to go for the ICC World Cup 2019 in England and Wales. The management has given long runs to Ambati Rayudu and Dinesh Karthik, who has failed to cement their berths. However, the management didn’t think about Ajinkya Rahane who could have provided stability in India’s middle-order. Technically sound, Rahane could have been the perfect answer to Virat Kohli’s problems, but the Mumbai batsman doesn’t want to overthink about the limited opportunities.

Meanwhile, it is highly unlikely that Ajinkya Rahane will be in the World Cup squad, but he is eager to add to his tally of 90 ODI games. The Test vice-captain while attending a press conference organised by Rajasthan Royals said that he has never had any complaints about his batting position. Rahane understand that the batting-order depends on many factors and is upbeat to bat anywhere in the team.

“I have never had complaints about my batting order and have performed anywhere I have batted. I don’t want to put any pressure on myself by thinking about the No 4 spot in the Indian team. For India, I am ready to bat at any position,” Rahane said.

Good to have Smith in the team

Rajasthan Royals will receive a massive boost with the return of Steven Smith after missing the last season of the IPL. However, the star batsman is coming from an injury and will aim to hit the strides ahead of the World Cup. Ajinkya Rahane who will lead Rajasthan Royals will have Smith by his side and will look to pick his mind is tricky situations. The skipper also hailed the former Aussie skipper saying that it is an advantage to have him in the playing XI.

“It’s good to have him (Smith) back as a Rajasthan Royals player. He is a quality player and it’s always good to have him in your team. Also to pick his mind will be very important. We all know his ability to win matches,” Rahane added.

In conclusion, Ajinkya Rahane urged the media to take it slowly on new Australian sensation Ashton Turner who single-handedly defeated India in the fourth ODI. Turner will feature for the Royals and is expected to play a crucial role.

Rajasthan Royals will begin their campaign on March 25 against Kings XI Punjab at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.