India’s Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has responded to the criticism he has coped up in recent times due to his batting. Ever since, his Melbourne ton, which helped India to win draw level against Australia, Rahane has been short of runs. His next few scores after the ton read 4, 22, 24, 37, 1 & 0. Thus, he was at the receiving end of some severe criticism from former cricketers and the media.
Ahead of the second Test between India and England in Chennai, from February 13, Kohli’s deputy Rahane was asked to respond to his critics over his inconsistency in the longest format of the game.
“We are playing at home after two years. It’s all about the team, not about any individual. If you look at my last 10-15 Tests, you will find some runs there” Rahane told in the pre-match presser.
The India vice-captain was also asked on the possible team combination ahead of the second Test. However, he refrained from leaking the final XI. He said that Axar Patel’s comeback is good news for the team adding that all the players in the team are fit.
Also Read: India vs England 2021 Second Test Preview
Good To Have Axar Patel Fit: Ajinkya Rahane
“Every player is in the mix. Good to have Axar Patel fit. I’m not going to say who is going to play in the second Test. All our spinners are good and I’m sure they’re keen to do well,” Rahane said.
Ajinkya Rahane was recently backed up by his skipper Virat Kohli after India lost the first Test. Kohli said that Rahane is a crucial member of the Indian test team alongside Cheteshwar Pujara and that he will deliver for us in the next game.
“Ajinkya Rahane is, I have said this many times in the past as well, along with Cheteshwar Pujara is our most important Test batsman and he is going to continue to be. We believe in his abilities, we have believed in his abilities for a long time now. He is an impact player” said Virat Kohli.
Former Indian cricketers Sanjay Manjrekar and VVS Laxman questioned the intent of Rahane while he batted in the first Test. However, despite everything, Virat Kohli spoke positively about Rahane who indeed is an important member of India’s Test outfit.
Also Read: Virat Kohli Backs Ajinkya Rahane Despite Failing in Chennai Against England
