India’s opening batsman Ajinkya Rahane was consistent in the ODI series against Australia. He has been scoring big in the 50 overs format but still, has been a stand-in opener for Team India, as Virat Kohli and the team management prefer to go with Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan in limited overs cricket.
Rahane has done well whenever he has been asked to open the innings for India. It is not easy to play in a situation like Rahane is in because he is himself never sure about his place in the playing XI. Even after scoring runs, Rahane sits on the bench because Dhawan is team’s first choice opener alongside Rohit.
But, credit goes Rahane for keeping himself motivated and doing well whenever he is given a chance.
After the fifth ODI, the Mumbai lad addressed the media and spoke about the completion among him, Dhawan and Rohit for the opening slot.
Rahane said that his focus is only on giving his best for the team and enjoy his game.
“I think this wicket wasn’t easy, 240 was a job well done with the ball, but when we batted, the ball was coming really slowly, I enjoyed my knock today. I always want to do my best, Shikhar and Rohit have done well for us, we love the competition.”
Rahane also said that he and Rohit know each other’s strengths and complement each other. He also added that Team India never took Australia lightly because they are a top quality team and deserve respect.
“Me and Rohit complement each other, we know our strengths, we wanted to time the ball and get a good opening partnership, that gave us the momentum. We never took them (Australia) lightly, they are a quality team and we need to recognize that. But we were playing at home and we knew these pitches better.”