Reports: Delhi Capitals eyeing Ajinkya Rahane for IPL 2020

The preparations for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 have begun with the franchises looking for the players to trade. The trading window is open and Mumbai Indians (MI) took the first step trading Mayank Markande for Sherfane Rutherford of the Delhi Capitals (DC). However, in a dramatic turn of events, it has been reported now that the Delhi franchise is looking to pick Rajasthan Royals’ Ajinkya Rahane for the next season.

Rahane led the Royals for a majority of 2019 season and stepped down with the results not going in the team’s favour. Steve Smith was reinstated as the skipper of the team and many had criticised Rahane for his tactics while at the helm. If at all, the DC manages to secure Rahane’s services for the next IPL edition, it will be another big move from the franchise after getting hold of Shikhar Dhawan last season.

The left-handed opener ended up amassing 521 runs even as Delhi Capitals also managed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2012.

Talks are on

The source privy to the developments has confirmed that the Delhi franchise is trying to get Ajinkya Rahane into the team. However, he also went on to say that the Royals’ response will also be crucial to moving things forward and nothing could be said until the official paperwork is done.

“Yes, DC is trying to get Rahane onboard, but too early to say if the deal will see the light of the day. A lot of things need to be taken care of before the dotted line is signed. RR’s take on the whole issue can also not be discounted since he has been a huge ambassador for them. But yes, talks are on,” the source was quoted as saying by Outlook.

Ajinkya Rahane brings experience to the team and him opening the innings along with Shikhar Dhawan next season will make it a perfect pair for the DC. “The side has attempted to get the right balance between youth and experience and what Rahane brings to the table isn’t something one needs to talk about. It is there for all to see.

“Dhawan and Ishant Sharma showed what having experienced heads in the dug-out means when the situation is tough and this could be a dream move if sealed,” the source further added. As far as Rahane is concerned, this will be his fourth team in the IPL if the Rajasthan Royals decide to trade him. He represented Mumbai Indians in the first two seasons before joining the Royals in 2011 and also played for the Pune franchise when RR was banned for two years.