Ajinkya Rahane reminded everyone why he is still one of India’s best red-ball batters. The Mumbai veteran scored a whopping 159 off 303 balls against Chhattisgarh in the Ranji Trophy, guiding his team to 406 for 8 after 130 overs.
Mumbai’s top order struggled and managed just 21 runs before Rahane came in at number 3 and took over the lead. His patient, determined innings kept the innings steady and silenced doubts about his place in the side.
The blow came at an important time for Rahane, who has been out of the Indian Test team since July 2023, when he last played against the West Indies. The 36-year-old after the turn of the century expressed his disappointment at missing out on the 2024-2025 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, believing his experience could have helped the team in Australia.
“It’s not about age”
“It’s not about the age. It’s about the intention and the passion for the red ball and the hard work you put in,” Rahane said after his innings. “In Australia, you see, Michael Hussey made his debut in his 30s and was still making runs. Experience is important in red-ball cricket. Personally, I thought the Indian team needed me in Australia.”
Rahane criticized the selectors for poor communication and said players above their mid-30s should not be written off.
“After 34-35 years, players are called old. But if someone is passionate about red ball cricket, the selectors should look at that. Every time, it is not about the performance. It is about the intention and passion,” he added.
He also emphasized on maintaining a balance between youth and experience, citing how Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli continue to deliver for India.
“You can’t go with all the newcomers. Young blood is important but if you have experience, the team will do well. I was very happy to see Rohit reach that 100,” Rahane said.
“Daddy, you can do it”
Even at the domestic level, Rahane has faced criticism, saying he is only focusing on manageable issues. He credited his family for keeping him motivated.
“There are a lot of unwanted people who talk without knowing what it takes. But my family and children have always supported me. They said, ‘Dad, you can do it,'” he said with a smile.
With this century, Rahane has once again proven his hunger and form, sending a clear message to the selectors that he still has the fire and skill for Test cricket.
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