Does Ajinkya Rahane Still Aspire to Play Test Cricket for India?
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Synopsis
Ajinkya Rahane, the veteran Indian cricketer, shares his undying passion for Test cricket and his desire to play for India. With impressive stats and leadership experience, Rahane reflects on his journey and the challenges he faces in the current cricket landscape. Discover how he plans to continue contributing to Indian cricket.
Key Takeaways
- Ajinkya Rahane expresses a strong desire to continue playing Test cricket.
- He has accumulated 5077 runs in his Test career.
- Rahane has led Mumbai to victory in the Ranji Trophy.
- His leadership philosophy emphasizes authenticity and instinct.
- Rahane's passion for the game remains unwavering even at 37.
London, July 12 (NationPress) Veteran batsman Ajinkya Rahane expressed his enduring ambition to play Test cricket for India, emphasizing his profound passion for representing the nation in this traditional format. With a record of 85 Tests, he has accumulated 5077 runs at an impressive average of 38.46, which includes 12 centuries and 26 fifties.
“It’s great to be here. I still yearn to play Test cricket; my passion for it remains strong. Currently, I’m enjoying the game. During my brief stay, I brought my trainers and training gear to maintain my fitness. Our domestic season is approaching, and my preparations are in full swing,” Rahane conveyed during a lunch break on Sky Sports.
Rahane's last appearance for India in a Test match was against the West Indies in Port of Spain in July 2023, where he also acted as the vice-captain. Since then, he has focused on domestic cricket, leading Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, culminating in their victory in the prestigious championship for the 2023/24 season.
“My focus is on what I can control. I attempted to communicate with the selectors, but received no feedback. All I can do is continue playing. I love Test cricket and the challenge of the red ball. It’s my passion,” Rahane added.
At the age of 37, Rahane has captained India in six matches, winning four, including leading the team to victory in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia while Virat Kohli was on paternity leave.
“Every captain has a unique style. When I stepped into the role, I aimed to remain true to my instincts and approach. It was essential for me to uphold my character and trust my judgment,” he concluded.
Point of View
Ajinkya Rahane's unwavering passion for Test cricket is commendable. Despite challenges in communication with selectors, his commitment to the game and leadership in domestic cricket reflect a dedication that resonates with fans and aspiring cricketers alike. His experience and insights can guide the future of Indian cricket, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent and recognizing passion in the sport.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Ajinkya Rahane remain passionate about Test cricket?
Ajinkya Rahane remains passionate about Test cricket due to his love for the traditional format, as he finds it challenging and fulfilling. His dedication is evident in his impressive statistics and commitment to fitness and preparation.
What are Ajinkya Rahane's recent achievements?
Recently, Ajinkya Rahane led Mumbai to victory in the Ranji Trophy for the 2023/24 season and served as vice-captain during India's Test series against the West Indies.
How has Rahane's leadership impacted Indian cricket?
Rahane's leadership has been significant, winning four out of six matches as captain, including the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His approach focuses on staying true to his instincts and character.
