Ajinkya Rahane reflects on his career, selection challenges, and future aspirations. The veteran batter discusses his perspective on team selection and media perception.
Ajinkya Rahane, a seasoned Indian batter known for his consistent performances in overseas conditions, has faced challenges in maintaining his position in the national team. Once a reliable No. 4 in Test cricket, Rahane’s form has declined in recent years, leading to his exclusion from the national team across all formats.
Despite his contributions to Indian cricket, Rahane has openly discussed his disappointment with the lack of communication from the selectors regarding his exclusion after the 2023 World Test Championship final.
Rahane’s Perspective on Selection
Rahane expressed his views on being dropped from the team, highlighting his efforts to regain his place through domestic cricket and the IPL. He noted that despite performing well, he was dropped again after the World Test Championship final. Rahane emphasized that his focus remains on playing cricket and performing to the best of his ability. He mentioned that he expected to be considered for the South Africa series but was ultimately not selected.
He revealed that he was advised to discuss his situation with the management and selectors but felt unable to do so because the ‘other person’ was not receptive to a conversation. Rahane clarified that he is not one to persistently question his exclusion but felt particularly disheartened after being dropped following his hard work leading up to the WTC final. He maintains a belief in his potential comeback to the team.
The Role of PR and Media Perception
Rahane also touched upon the influence of PR teams in shaping public opinion and potentially influencing selection decisions. In contrast to some players, Rahane stated that he does not have a PR team to advocate for him. He acknowledged the growing importance of staying in the news and maintaining visibility, but his primary focus has always been on playing cricket.
He said that he now realizes that staying in the news is important, or else people think that he’s out of the circle. Rahane added that his only PR is his cricket.
Recent Performances and Future Aspirations
While Rahane’s form in the recent Ranji Trophy campaign for Mumbai was inconsistent, he regained his form by scoring a century in the quarterfinal against Haryana. This milestone also marked his hundredth in his 200th first-class match.
Offer to be a Commentator
Rahane also revealed that he received a significant offer to work as a commentator during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Despite not being selected for the team, Rahane declined the offer, expressing his determination to continue playing. He stated that being selected is not in his hands.
He led Mumbai to the Ranji Trophy title in 2023-24. He was part of the WTC final and West Indies tour as well.
Support and Motivation
Rahane acknowledged the support from fans and cricket experts who felt he should have been included in the team. He mentioned that this support motivates him to keep striving for a return to the national side.
Rahane was also the leading run-scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
In summary, Ajinkya Rahane remains focused on his cricket, aiming to prove his worth through consistent performances and hoping for another opportunity to represent India.
Sources: https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/there-was-no-communication-snubbed-ajinkya-rahane-throws-bcci-selectors-management-under-the-bus-7729465
https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/ajinkya-rahane-exposes-ajit-agarkar-no-communication-odd-india-snub-if-he-is-not-ready-there-is-no-point-fighting-101739771707119.html
https://crictoday.com/cricket/news/i-got-a-big-offer-for-border-gavaskar-trophy-2024-25-ajinkya-rahane-reveals-why-he-refused-to-accept-it/