It is a Privilege to Play Afghanistan in Their Debut Test: Ajinkya Rahane
Published - 12 Jun 2018, 02:56 PM | Updated - 22 Aug 2024, 11:52 PM
India’s stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane said it is a ‘privilege’ to play Afghanistan in their debut game owing to the longest format. Rahane believes it is also an opportunity for the Indian team to write its name yet again in the history books.
Meanwhile, Rahane will hold the captaincy reins in the absence of Virat Kohli. In fact, we had noticed that Rahane has a calm head on his shoulders.
The right-hander had also led with aplomb in the series decider against Australia at Dharamshala last year. Thus, Rahane has the confidence under his belt to face-off Asghar Stanikzai-led Afghan team.
“It’s a privilege to be playing in Afghanistan’s first Test match. It’s a historic moment for them and an opportunity for us to be part of the occasion,” Rahane said as saying in an ICC’s release.
Furthermore, Rahane believes Afghanistan has a talented pool of players in their ranks. The Afghan team has shown a great form in the shorter formats. Thus, Rahane added that they would be curious to repeat the same in the red-ball form.
Moreover, Rahane gave his best wishes to the Afghanistan team.
“They have a fine team and some talented players, who have proved themselves in shorter formats. I am sure they are looking forward to doing the same in Test cricket. On behalf of the Indian team, I wish them all the best.”
Meanwhile, Rahane will like to lead from the front in the absence of full-time skipper Kohli, who struggled with the neck issue.
In fact, Ajinkya Rahane had earlier said they are not going to make the mistake of taking Afghanistan lightly.
Afghanistan side has quality spinners like Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, who can pose a threat to the No.1 ranked Test team. Thus, the Indian batsmen will like to be on the top of their game.
Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami is ruled out as he failed to clear the fitness test.
Delhi’s fast bowler Navdeep Saini has received his maiden Indian call-up in place of Shami.
India will square off with Afghanistan from June 14 at Bengaluru.
