Ajinkya Rahane is unequivocally regarded as one of the finest players in Indian cricket history. With a notable career spanning all three formats of the game, he has left a unique mark, particularly in Test cricket. However, since 2023, Rahane has found himself sidelined from the Indian national team. Despite his impressive performances in domestic cricket, his journey back to Team India has been fraught with challenges. Recently, Rahane opened up about his exclusion following the 2023 World Test Championship final, revealing the lack of communication from selectors, which has been a point of concern for him.
The Silence from Selectors: Rahane’s Frustration
In a candid interview with the Indian Express, Ajinkya Rahane shared his thoughts regarding his abrupt exclusion after the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC). He revealed that he was informed of his dismissal by the selectors but refrained from questioning the decision. “I’m not the type of person who goes back and asks why I was dropped,” he mentioned. Rahane expressed his disappointment at the lack of communication, stating, “I was told to go and talk, but conversation requires a willingness to engage. If no one wants to speak, there’s no point in pursuing it.”
Rahane further elaborated on his feelings of bewilderment following the WTC final, “It didn’t feel good to be dropped after all my hard work. I was under the impression that I would be part of the team for the next series, making the exclusion even more perplexing. All I can control are my performances; complaining won’t change anything. I have faith that I will make a comeback.”
Rahane’s Domination in Domestic Cricket
Despite not being part of the Indian national squad, Ajinkya Rahane is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for a comeback. He is performing extraordinarily well in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, boasting an impressive tally of 437 runs in just 12 innings, including one century. Furthermore, during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he emerged as the highest run-scorer, amassing a remarkable 469 runs in nine matches.
Future Prospects for Ajinkya Rahane
As Rahane continues to dominate in domestic cricket, the question remains – will the selectors take notice? Many believe that his consistent performances could indeed pave the way for a return to the national team. Given his experience and skills, which have been honed over years of playing at the highest level, Rahane’s comeback could significantly bolster India’s lineup in the international arena.
Conclusion
Ajinkya Rahane’s journey serves as a reminder of the fierce competition in Indian cricket. Despite facing setbacks, his determination to excel in domestic cricket reflects a resilient spirit. As fans and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await his return to the national team, it’s clear that Rahane has not given up hope and continues to strive for excellence on the field.