CSK captain Dhoni changed his career like this
After a hiatus of 15 months, Ajinkya Rahane has made a comeback to international cricket as he has been selected in the Indian team for the World Test Championship final. Ajinkya Rahane return to Test Cricket.
Despite being dropped from Team India in January 2022 due to subpar form, the seasoned batsman’s remarkable performances in Ranji Trophy and IPL have earned him this opportunity.
It’s worth noting that Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the former India captain and current captain of Chennai Super Kings, played a significant role in Rahane’s return to the national side.
Ajinkya Rahane faced immense pressure when he was excluded from the national team, and his performances during IPL 2022 were underwhelming.
In addition, he was dropped by the Kolkata Knight Riders. As a result, Rahane reduced his base price and was placed in the 50 lakh group for the next IPL auction. During the previous IPL player auction, only the Chennai Super Kings showed interest in Rahane, ultimately acquiring him for Rs 50 lakh.
Dhoni trusted Rahane
Chennai Super Kings is known for placing its trust in experienced players in the IPL. The team acquired Shane Watson towards the end of his career, and even when no other team showed interest, they added Robin Uthappa to their squad. Ajinkya Rahane is another addition to this list. Ajinkya Rahane return to Test Cricket fast.
As Mahendra Singh Dhoni requires a balance of youth and experience in his team, he gave Rahane assurance. Dhoni was the captain of the Indian team when Rahane played for an extended period in international cricket, so he was aware of Rahane’s strengths and weaknesses.
Chennai’s coaching staff encouraged Rahane
The coaching staff at Chennai Super Kings played a crucial role in encouraging Rahane to improve his game. Despite scoring 634 runs with two centuries at an impressive average of 57.63 in the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai, Rahane’s team failed to progress to the knockout stages.
It was then that Rahane joined the Chennai Super Kings camp, where he received guidance from the likes of coach Stephen Fleming and batting coach Michael Hussey, in addition to Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The coaching staff advised Rahane to play with freedom and remain prepared at all times. Ajinkya Rahane return to Test Cricket read this.
Returned with a quick innings against Mumbai
Chennai Super Kings included Rahane in their team after just two matches, and the decision proved to be a wise one. Rahane announced his return to form with a scintillating innings of 61 runs against the Mumbai Indians.
In his next four innings, he scored 31, 37, 9, and an unbeaten 71, accumulating a total of 209 runs at an impressive average of 52.25 and a striking rate of 199.04. Rahane credited his comeback to the guidance and support provided by Chennai’s captain, Dhoni.
Rahane said this for Dhoni
In a recent statement, Rahane acknowledged that getting the chance to play has been the turning point in his career. He expressed his gratitude towards Chennai Super Kings for selecting him and providing him with an opportunity to showcase his abilities.
Rahane credited Mahendra Singh Dhoni for his comeback, stating that he just needed an opportunity, and the World Cup-winning captain gave him sufficient time to regain his form. According to Rahane, playing under Dhoni has been a learning experience, and as a cricketer, he always strives to improve and grow.
Rahane has played 82 Tests for India
Ajinkya Rahane’s recent cricketing journey:
- Rahane’s last Test for India was on January 11, 2022, against South Africa.
- After that match, he was dropped from the team due to poor form.
- In 82 Tests for India, Rahane has scored 4932 runs at an average of 38.52, including 12 centuries and 25 half-centuries.
- Rahane has previously captained India in many matches.
- After a gap of 15 months, Rahane has returned to Team India.