Ajinkya Rahane’s return to form crucial ahead of New Zealand Test series

The recent continuous run of low scores by Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain of the Indian Test cricket team, has been scrutinised by fans and experts alike. But a brilliant performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy would suggest the batsman is finding his feet back.

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Ajinkya notched up the third highest number of runs in the latest edition of the tournament with a score of 286 runs in 5 matches at an average of 57.20 and a strike rate of 133.64. He scored four fifties and his highest score was 75 runs. The batsman hit 11 sixes and 26 fours during the tournament.

Since the beginning of the year Ajinkya has failed to perform for the senior team in Test matches. The team played 11 Test matches between January 7, 2021, and November 23, 2021. In these matches Ajinkya had the opportunity to bat on 19 occasions. He managed to score above the 50-run mark just twice and registered single digit scores on five occasions in addition to departing for a duck twice.

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Ajinkya’s performance has been disappointing and below par for the vice-captain of a formidable Indian side and if he wishes to continue he must work on brushing up his skills.

Speaking on the Star Sports’ show ‘Game Plan’, former India batsman Gautam Gambhir went on to say that Ajinkya was ‘pretty fortunate’ to still be a part of the side.

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Former cricketer Aakash Chopra has questioned Ajinkya’s place in the squad. His drop in form in Test matches is a concern for the Indian side ahead of the beginning of the next cycle of the World Test Championship.