Ajinkya Rahane believed he had the potential to make it big in ODIs

Ajinkya Rahane’s capabilities as a limited over batsman has always been in doubt. While the elegant stroke player is perfectly suited for the longer version of the game, he has faced a significant amount of criticism for his performances in ODIs. But the 29-year-old always believed in his potentials and knew he had all the ingredients to make it big.

After an average IPL campaign, Rahane made it to India’s Champions Trophy squad but unfortunately did not get a chance to prove his worth in the mega ICC event. The absence of Rohit Sharma paved the way for Rahane to prove a point in the ongoing West Indies series. With scores of 62, 103 and 72, Rahane capitalised on the opportunity and is currently making a mark in the 50 over format as well.

“Not at all,” Rahane said emphatically when asked if he had started doubting his abilities after being out of playing XI in ODIs.

“It was a matter of getting good runs and getting it consistently, I was waiting for this chance. I want to thank Virat (Kohli) and team management as they gave me an opportunity to bat at top of the order,” Rahane said at the post-match conference.

When asked if he can match Rohit Sharma’s ability to shift gears after a slow start, Rahane claimed that if he stays on the pitch for long he can make the bowlers pay and make his innings count. “I know I took some time (on 72 off 112 balls) but if I stay there, I can make it count. I don’t take things for granted. I can make up (for slow starts). I can read game situations and play accordingly.”

About his future in the team:

Rahane pointed out that he is not concerned about the fact that his position in the team might be in danger when Rohit Sharma comes back. According to the Maharashtra-born batsman, he prefers to enjoy the present rather than worrying about the future.

“I believe, it’s a team sport and I have to give my hundred percent wherever team management asks me to bat. Whether it’s top or middle, I always want to do well. In future, I don’t know what will happen but now I really want to focus on each match and series, here,” he said.

Speaking about the conditions in West Indies, Rahane said “I am an instinctive player but at the highest level, you have to adapt. This wicket (Antigua) was completely different to Trinidad and the ball is stopping and there was uneven bounce on the wicket. We had to take our time.

“When myself and Mahi bhai (Dhoni) and before that Yuvi paaji (Yuvraj) were batting, we decided on a total of around 225-230. This was not like Port of Spain where you could play your shots,” said Rahane.

On working on his fitness:

Rahane utilised his time in England during the Champions Trophy to boost up his skills as a fielder. He claims that working on his fitness is turning out to be crucial in the ongoing West Indies tour.

“I worked on my batting as well as fitness. We have been playing non-stop cricket till IPL. You don’t get time to work separately on your fitness. The time I got in England helped me work on my batting as well as fitness. It is helping me in these hot conditions,”