WTC Final: Ajinkya Rahane returned to Test after scoring quick runs in T20, CSK captain Dhoni changed his career like this

Posted on 26th Apr 2023 by rohit kumar

Ajinkya Rahane has returned to international cricket after 15 months. Rahane has been included in the Indian squad for the World Test Championship final. The veteran batsman, who was dropped from Team India in January 2022 due to poor form, has been rewarded for his stellar performances in Ranji Trophy and IPL. Former India captain and current Chennai Super Kings captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has a big hand in Rahane's comeback.

 

When Rahane was dropped from the international team, he was under a lot of pressure. His performance in IPL 2022 was also disappointing. Then Rahane was also dropped from the team by Kolkata Knight Riders. In IPL, he reduced his base price and included himself in the 50 lakh group. Last time when the player auction was held for IPL, none other than Chennai Super Kings bid on Rahane. CSK bought him for Rs 50 lakh.

 

Dhoni trusted Rahane

Chennai Super Kings is one such team in the IPL which has always relied on experienced players. When Shane Watson was in the last phase of his career, Chennai bought him. When no team wanted to buy Robin Uthappa in the IPL, then Chennai included him. Rahane also joined the same list. Mahendra Singh Dhoni needs a mix of young and experienced players. He assured Rahane. Under the captaincy of Mahi, this Mumbai player played in international cricket for a long time. Dhoni knew his strengths and weaknesses.

 

Chennai's coaching staff encouraged Rahane

Rahane scored 634 runs at an average of 57.63 with the help of two centuries in the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai. However, his team could not reach the knockouts. After this, he reached the Chennai Superkings camp. There apart from Dhoni, coach Stephen Fleming and batting coach Michael Hussey worked on Rahane's batting. Advised Rahane to play freely and always be prepared.

 

Returned with a quick innings against Mumbai

Chennai included Rahane in the team after two matches. Rahane announced his comeback after playing a blistering inning of 61 runs against Mumbai Indians. After that, he played innings of 31, 37, nine, and 71 not out. He has 209 runs in five innings at an average of 52.25. His strike rate is 199.04. Rahane gave the credit for his comeback to captain Dhoni.

 

Rahane said this for Dhoni

Rahane said, "The turning point of my career is that I am getting a chance to play. I was very happy when Chennai picked me. They allowed me to play and show my abilities." Crediting Dhoni Rahane said he just needed an opportunity. The World Cup-winning captain gave him full time to find his form again. Rahane said, "When you play under Mahi Bhai (Mahendra Singh Dhoni) You get a chance to learn a lot. As a batsman and cricketer, you always want to grow.

 

Rahane has played 82 Tests for India

Ajinkya Rahane played the last Test for India on 11 January 2022 against South Africa. He was dropped from the team after that match. He has scored 4932 runs in 82 Tests for India at an average of 38.52. During this, 12 centuries and 25 half-centuries have come out of his bat. Rahane, who has captained India in many matches, has returned to Team India after 15 months.

 

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