Is Ajinkya Rahane's India comeback possible? 'Fire and passion' still alive!

The ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024-25 is currently in the playoff stage and there are still some top-notch players featuring in the tournament. One of the favourites is the Ajinkya Rahane-led Mumbai team that is currently playing in the semi-finals against Vidarbha and will be looking to win their 43rd title this season.

This has been another great season for Rahane who has led from the front once again and scored a brilliant century in the quarterfinals against Haryana. Notably, the experienced leader stepped up in a do-or-die situation. The former India Test vice-captain has scored 437 runs in the nine matches he has played averaging 39.72 so far.

Despite some great performances Rahane has been missing from the international scene right now but it seems like he still has aspirations to make a comeback despite young stars coming up in the ranks in the Indian setup. Ajinkya Rahane still feels he has the fire and passion to represent the nation in international cricket and banks on his experience and fitness

“There is still fire and passion in me. I’m playing Ranji Trophy at the moment, trying to give my all to the Mumbai team. The goal is clear to make another comeback,” Rahane told The Indian Express on the eve of the Ranji Trophy semifinal game.

“I’m more experienced, but still feel young. I’m fit enough to compete at the highest level. I never get satisfied with my game and don’t take things for granted. I feel there’s more cricket left in me as a batsman, one can play till 40. There are players who have played till the age of 39-40. What matters is fitness. We need more experienced players, plus a few youngsters, in the team. So that they can learn,” the Mumbai stalwart concluded.

Also Read- Reports: Yashasvi Jaiswal set to miss Ranji Trophy semi-final versus Vidarbha due to injury

Vidarbha batting first in Ranji knockout

Speaking of the Ranji Trophy semi-final match at Nagpur Vidarbha won the toss and elected to bat first in the game. As of writing the score is currently 64-1 at the end of 19 overs. Dhruv Shorey and Parth Rekhade are currently at the crease and are keeping the scoreline moving.