Ajinkya Rahane believes he is an aggressive batsman and deserves more chances in limited overs cricket

What’s the story?

Ajinkya Rahane feels he deserves more chances consistently in the limited overs format, as he is an aggressive batsman by nature. Rahane made these surprising comments in an interview with The Hindu.

The background

Rahane has been one of the vital players for India in Tests in the recent past. Unsurprisingly, he’s the vice-captain of the team in the longer format.

However, Rahane hasn’t been able to replicate the same kind of play in the shorter formats. He last played an ODI against South Africa a year ago, back in February 2018.

The details

Though India's team for the World Cup 2019 is almost ready, Rahane still hopes that he will feature in the squad that goes to England.

"I am aggressive as a batsman but by nature, I am an introvert. I don't like to talk too much, I prefer to let my bat speak but sometimes it's important to speak the truth. I have believed the team always comes first and I have always respected the team management and the selectors' decision and I will continue to do that," Rahane said.

"But in the end, it is important that the effort that I am putting in is acknowledged. As a player, I feel everyone needs consistent chances to do well for the team," he added.

Despite Rahane playing some good innings in Windies as an opener, he was made to bat in the middle order against South Africa. When asked whether that was a let down for him, he said the following:

“If I feel let down, my mindset will turn negative, so I don't really think that way. I leave that decision to the selectors because they are the best judges. But at the same time, I also believe that my performances were really good.

"If you see the last three-four series, my average was around 45 to 50. After that, I was dropped. I went back to domestic cricket and I feel I have done reasonably well."

What’s next?

Rahane is currently leading Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India's domestic T20 tournament. He then starts his IPL campaign with Rajasthan Royals.

With the team for the World Cup to be announced shortly, Rahane will have his fingers crossed. To be honest, he might still hold a chance as he India haven't finalized a backup opener yet.