Rahane’s comeback after 18 months showcases his renewed intent and mindset
Ajinkya Rahane, the senior Indian batter, is set to make his comeback to the national team after nearly 18 months. Determined not to dwell on the past, Rahane expressed his desire to start afresh and bring the same intent he displayed in the recently concluded IPL into the upcoming World Test Championship final against Australia. In an interview with BCCI.TV during India’s training session, Rahane emphasized his focus on the present and his commitment to continue his successful approach.
Having enjoyed a fruitful season with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rahane credited his consistent batting form, both in the IPL and domestic cricket, for his emotional return to the Indian team. The veteran batter, who played a pivotal role in CSK’s fifth IPL title triumph, garnered praise for his attacking batting style and improved strike rate in T20 cricket. Notably, his impressive 27-ball 61 against the Mumbai Indians showcased a noticeable shift in his intent.
Regardless of the format, Rahane emphasized his desire to maintain his current mindset and intent, drawing inspiration from his performances in the IPL and Ranji Trophy. The seasoned player, with 82 Tests and 4,931 runs under his belt, expressed his preference for simplicity and stated, “The more I keep it simple, the better it is for me.”
Rahane also commended Rohit Sharma’s leadership, acknowledging his contribution in creating a positive team culture. He expressed his belief that Sharma and Rahul Dravid, the head coach, are leading the team admirably. Rahane further highlighted the enjoyable atmosphere within the squad, emphasizing the camaraderie among the players.
Expressing his gratitude, Rahane thanked his family and friends for their unwavering support during his time away from the national team. He described the emotional impact of being dropped and credited their encouragement for helping him regain his focus. Rahane dedicated himself to improving his fitness and returned to domestic cricket with the aspiration of representing India once again.
Reflecting on his comeback journey, Rahane emphasized the importance of cherishing every moment and learning from every individual in the Mumbai Ranji team. He stressed the need for continuous growth as a cricketer and affirmed that the learning process should never cease.
Looking ahead to the challenges posed by playing in England, Rahane emphasized the significance of mindset and adaptability. Drawing from his memorable century at Lord’s in 2014, he highlighted the need to read the situation, stay in the present moment, and approach the game session by session. Rahane noted that the English conditions demand attention not only to the pitch but also to the ever-changing weather.
As Ajinkya Rahane prepares to don the Indian colors once again, his return comes with renewed intent, a desire to keep things simple, and an appreciation for the growth he has experienced during his time away from the national team. With the World Test Championship final on the horizon, fans eagerly await his contribution to the team’s success against Australia.
