It will be a big call if Ajinkya Rahane does not play the 3rd Test against SA: Reetinder Singh Sodhi

Veteran Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane scored a fluent half-century for the Indian side in the 2nd innings of the 2nd Test match against South Africa at Johannesburg. Now, former Indian cricketer, Reetinder Singh Sodhi has opined that only one out of Hanuma Vihari or Ajinkya Rahane might feature in the Indian playing XI if Virat Kohli returns back for the 3rd Test.

Sodhi also stated that India would be taking a ‘big call’ if they decide to leave out Ajinkya Rahane from their playing XI. At the same time, Sodhi also feels that Hanuma Vihari warrants a place in the playing XI as well.

“If you talk about the combination, one out of Ajinkya Rahane or Hanuma Vihari will play. It will be a big call if you don’t play Ajinkya Rahane because Hanuma Vihari has not done anything wrong; he played a very pivotal knock,” said Sodhi on India News.

It will be a lifeline for Ajinkya Rahane if he plays: Reetinder Singh Sodhi

Reetinder Singh Sodhi also added that Ajinkya Rahane has been struggling in the recent past, and the right-hander would be granted a lifeline if he manages to keep his spot for the 3rd Test match. Sodhi concluded by stating that if Rahane helps India to win the 3rd Test at Cape Town, he will cement his place in the Indian side once again.

“Rahane has also scored runs, where the form has been seen. So it will be a huge decision, and if Rahane plays, it could be a lifeline for him because somewhere or the other, he has been struggling. He will be able to cement his place once again if he wins the decider for the Indian team,” concluded Reetinder Singh Sodhi.