Ajinkya Rahane was finally removed from the Indian Test squad after various performances in the years were not great. In the time period between 2017 and 2023, the ex-captain of the Indian team had an average of more than 40 in a single year just once. Even though he was part of the team that made valuable contributions, the management kept him for a long time but his ride came to an end on India's 2023 tour of the West Indies.
Ajinkya Rahane believes age shouldn’t be a barrier
On the other hand, Rahane is still holding onto the idea of a possible comeback in Test cricket. After scoring his 42nd century in first-class cricket history against Chhattisgarh at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy BKC in Mumbai, he made it clear that selection based on age should not be a factor when it comes to players with fire and experience in their hearts.
“It’s not about age. It’s about intent, passion for the red ball, and the hard work you put in the middle,” Rahane told reporters. He pointed out examples like Michael Hussey, who made his Test debut in his 30s and still excelled. “Experience matters in red-ball cricket. I personally felt the Indian team needed me in Australia,” he added.
Reflecting on the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which India lost 1-3, Rahane said he believed his experience could have helped the side. During the last Australia tour, he was India’s third-highest scorer and led the team as captain in the final three matches, finishing with an average of 42.09 in Australia.
“I thought an experienced player like me should get more chances. There was no communication from the management, but I can only focus on the controllable things, which I am doing right now,” Rahane stated.
He concluded with a call for selectors to consider players’ intent and dedication alongside performance, especially for red-ball cricket, emphasizing that passion and experience are crucial assets for India’s Test team.
