5 reasons why Ajinkya Rahane is the most important member of the Test team

3. Ability to bat efficiently with the top order and the tail enders

Any test batsman coming in at the number 5 position needs to be mentally and temperamentally prepared to bat a good amount of time with the top order, but more importantly with the tail enders. This was a role mastered by VVS Laxman when he used to marshal the innings around the tail enders and win games for India single-handedly.

It looks like that trait has been carried forward by Rahane in this current team. Rahane is slightly lucky as there is more emphasis given to making sure bowlers also bat a little and not give away their wickets that easily.

So now even a Mohammad Shami coming in at number 11 can hold his end up by playing a few shots.

Still it’s really pleasing to see Ajinkya adapting to situations and playing according to that with ease. Whether it be building on a partnership with the solid Pujara or the classy Kohli, or adding some precious runs with the lower order he has proven his mettle time and again making his an integral part of this Indian team and the results is there for everyone to see- 8 consecutive series wins for Kohli. The silent champion in the team, happy to just do his bit for the team’s success is Ajinkya Rahane.