Allan Donald has his say on Ajinkya Rahane and KL Rahul's exclusion in the first Test

In a short three-match series between India and South Africa, Indian team is already one down after losing wickets in quick succession and not able to move the right foot forward. Though Indian team was on the losing side, the bowlers were able to deliver their best and intent seems to be lacking only in their batting. At the start of first day’s play in the first Test, it came to a surprise to every cricket fan after Indian team ignored two top-class batsmen, Ajinkya Rahane and KL Rahul, especially in the Tests.

Many greats of modern day cricket have already had their say on the subject and just to add to what has already been said by many, the former South African speedster Allan Donald, who has been a mentor to the fast bowlers in five different national teams as well as many franchises spoke about the exclusion of Ajinkya Rahane and KL Rahul. Furthermore, his opinion seems to be a bit different from other cricketers and believes India should go on with Shikhar Dhawan.

South Africans will be happy to see Rahul ahead of Shikhar

He believes South Africa’s bowling attack will be pleased to see Rahul taking the field rather than Shikhar Dhawan, more so because of Shikhar’s Aggressive nature. Shikhar has been in prime form and has just failed in two innings, with Allan Donald’s thoughts on his side, he would be eyeing another opportunity.

In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, Donald was asked to give his opinion on the subject. He said, “I consider Shikhar Dhawan to be a really aggressive player. If they make that change, South Africa will believe ‘right, that’s good for us’. Dhawan is a world-class player. From my point of view, if there is a change in the top, South Africa will think ‘okay, good we have KL Rahul instead of Shikhar Dhawan’ who is of aggressive nature. I would definitely continue with Shikhar”.

Harsh to keep Rahane Aside

On the other hand, he believes it’s harsh’ to keep Rahane aside and play Rohit instead. He even talked about Rahane’s mesmerising stint last time when India toured South Africa. He said, “I really think it’s harsh to keep Rahane out. Last time he was here he had a great tour. I think for me, Rahane is the man who can steady the ship. He is a rock-solid guy and a good head on his shoulders”.

He concluded by saying, “South Africans see Rahane sitting on the bench and carrying drinks and they would say ‘wow’. They would rather have that, you know. He’s an absolutely world-class player”.

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