In cricket there are very few stories of redemption at the moment that are better than that of Ajikya Rahane, as he returns as the vice-captain of Indian Test Team, after title winning season with Chennai Super Kings.
The veteran batter was dropped in February 2023 after a torrid outing in South Africa. Before that he was stripped of the vice-captaincy role as well.
Ajinkya Rahane returns to vice-captain India in test
But he did not give up. And returned to domestic cricket, worked hard on his skills. Now on the back of a good domestic season and excellent IPL for CSK under Dhoni’s Leadership, he is reinstated to his previous post.
The player was presented a glamorous chance of featuring in the WTC 2023 Final. In the absence of Shreyas Iyer, Rahane played a magnificent 89 run knock in first inning which saved India somewhat.
In the second inning too he played a magnificent knock, albeit in a losing cause. He emerged as the highest scorer for India in the game. And hence retained his spot in the team for the upcoming West Indies test series.
Reasons behind Rahane’s appointment
Although it seems that there are several factors at play in Rahane’s return, the main factor is another Indian stalwart losing his place.
Yes, it is the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara, that has paved way for Rahane. Since the Indian side has some young player, the selectors have to maintain a balance. And hence, the place for Rahane in the team opens up.
Also, the young Indian team lacks leadership skills, is another reason behind Rahane being named as the vice captain. Virat Kohli has clearly pulled out his name from any form of captaincy and leadership role.
Hence, in the absence of KL Rahul and Pant, if Rohit Sharma gets injured, India needs a senior player to lead them. And who can be better than Rahane to do that job.
Nobody in India will forget his heroics Downunder, 2 years ago. He along with some young guns managed to clinch a historic test win in Australia’s backyard.
The Indian team will be missing some big names from the squad. Having dropped Pujara and Umesh Yadav, they have rested Mohammad Shami. Which sees, Mukesh Kumar and Navdeep Saini being named in the squad.
It will be interesting to see the combination india goes with, especially in batting. In the absence of Pujara, Gaikwad and Jaiswal have been named in the team. Although, both being openers, it will be a tough call to play either of in the middle order.
Whatever the future holds for the team, Ajinkya Rahane will be ready to take it on. He has been playing a new brand of cricket. after being written off at the start of IPL, he has changed quite drastically.
His gave has more purpose and aggression, which lacked previously. Rahane showcased the great arsenal of cricketing shots he possesses. Now, it will be all about his intent and scoring runs that will ensure he stays with the team for a longer stint or not.
