“I Was Never Given Same Chances as Kohli and Rohit,” Says Ajinkya Rahane

Ajinkya Rahane made a strong case for himself after scoring a composed 159 for Mumbai against Chhattisgarh in the Ranji Trophy at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy, BKC. The 37-year-old spoke openly about selection, experience, and the role of senior players in the team.

Rahane said age should not be the main factor in selection. “It is not about the age, it is about the passion for red-ball cricket,” he told reporters. He cited examples like Mike Hussey, who debuted late but made a big impact, to stress that experience is vital, especially in tough away conditions.

The veteran batter added that he personally felt India needed him during the 2024-25 tour of Australia. “There was no communication,” Rahane said, noting that he stayed focused on what he could control but believed he deserved more opportunities.

He also highlighted the importance of balance in team selection. “Young blood is important, but teams perform better with experience,” Rahane said, pointing to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s recent ODI performances in Australia as proof that senior players still deliver in big moments.

Rahane also shared personal thoughts about handling criticism and staying motivated. He spoke about dealing with “unwanted people” talking without context, and how family and focus on cricket help him push through.

Before leaving, Rahane offered advice to younger players like Sarfaraz Khan. He urged them to stay focused, keep scoring runs, and control what they can on the field, the same principles he is following himself.