Ajinkya Rahane’s wife exults after hubby ended century draught

Ajinkya Rahane has been one of the leading Test batsmen for India in the last few years. His performances led the selectors to name him the vice-captain of the Test team. He has already filled in as captain when Virat Kohli was injured in the Border Gavaskar Trophy and ended his captaincy debut with a vital win.

First Test ton for Rahane in 10 months

Rahane scored his first century in 17 innings when he reached three figures on the opening day of the Colombo Test on Thursday. It was his first century since his career best 188 against South Africa in October last year. Overall, this was his 9th Test ton and sixth away from India. He sewed a significant 211-run partnership with Chetashwar Pujara for the fourth wicket which helped India finish on 344 for 3 at stumps. Rahane remained unbeaten at 103 and will be keen to convert this into a big one.

Amongst the crowd, Rahane had a huge fan in his wife Radhika Dhopavkar. She jumped in joy when Rahane picked a single on the off side to reach his century. She was relieved and said “finally” as soon as the Mumbaikar completed the single. Rahane himself was very pleased after missing out in batting friendly conditions during India’s last home Test season.

Rahane had a wonderful time in the ODI series in West Indies. In 5 innings, the right-hander scored 336 runs at 67.20. He seems to have taken that form into this Test series which is a daunting sign for the home side.

Rahane-Pujara grind Sri Lanka

Pujara helped himself to consecutive centuries and had a great partnership with Rahane. India were in a spot of bother when Kohli was caught brilliantly by Mathews at first slip. Coming in at 133 for 3, Rahane began positively which rubbed off on Pujara. The duo will be looking to pile on the agony on the hosts tomorrow morning.