Veteran Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane is not one to shy away from challenges, and he has his sights set on a significant personal milestone—playing 100 Test matches for his country. Despite currently being out of favour in the national Test squad, Rahane is unwavering in his quest, as he leads the Mumbai team in the prestigious Ranji Trophy.
His immediate focus is on guiding Mumbai to the Ranji Trophy title, yet he simultaneously harbours the “bigger objective of playing in 100 Test matches”. Rahane, whose experience and resilience at the crease have often served as a linchpin for the Indian batting line-up, made a notable return to the Test arena during the World Test Championship final of the 2021-23 cycle against an aggressive Australian bowling attack. Rahane’s scores of 89 and 46 in the first and second innings at The Oval in London showcased his ability to stand tall amidst pressure. However, his efforts were not enough to secure victory as Australia’s bowlers, led by the fiery Mitchell Starc, proved too much for the rest of the Indian batting order.
Following the World Test Championship, Rahane was retained by the selectors for a tour to the Caribbean where India faced the West Indies in a two-match Test series in July 2023. But the tour proved to be a tough one for him as he could only muster scores of 3 and 8. When it came time to pick the squad for a subsequent tour to South Africa, the selectors turned their attention to the younger talent, sidelining Rahane.
Despite this setback, Rahane’s resolve remains strong. A cricketer of his calibre knows that the path to a comeback is etched through domestic performance. It is this understanding that fuels his current fight, as Rahane intends to make another determined effort to return to India’s Test squad.
Rahane was not part of the Mumbai playing XI for their Ranji Trophy 2024 opener against Bihar at Moin-Ul-Haq Stadium in Patna, but he reclaimed his place for the second game versus Andhra. Speaking about the start to the season, Rahane expressed positivity, saying, “It’s been a very good start for us this season.”
The Ranji Trophy, a tournament steeped in tradition and prestige, requires consistency from teams aspiring to lift the trophy. Rahane is well aware of this, remarking on the importance of being consistent throughout the tournament. He emphasizes the need for the team to take each game as it comes and to adapt quickly to the changing conditions of the home-away format.
The tournament is more than just a championship for Rahane; it is a platform to demonstrate his ongoing prowess and readiness for international competition. For him, every inning is an opportunity to restate his case to the national selectors.
Ajinkya Rahane’s journey has been one of many ups and downs, marked with periods of prolific runs alongside moments of struggle. Nevertheless, he has continuously illustrated the grit and dedication that make a true sportsperson. His ultimate dream of reaching a centennial of Test appearances is not simply a quest for personal glory but a demonstration of his commitment to Indian cricket.
There is no telling what the future holds, but for Rahane, the goal remains clear. Whether on the international field or in the domestic arena, every swing of his bat is a step towards achieving a milestone that few cricketers ever reach. With determination in his heart and a bat in his hand, Ajinkya Rahane’s passion for the game continues to burn brightly, serving as an inspiration to cricketers young and old.
