With skipper MS Dhoni harbouring reservations about the batsman’s capability to rotate the strike in limited overs cricket, Rahane has been relegated to the bench. A factor which could however work in Rahane’s favour is that Ambati Rayudu – who replaced Rahane in the side – has been dismissed for a duck in both games so far.
While criticizing a player who has featured only thrice for the Men in Blue in T20 cricket can be held to be unreasonable, a case could be made for Rahane’s selection purely based on Rayudu’s poor form.
Meanwhile, former Indian captain and selector Dilip Vengsarkar praised Rahane for his qualities as a batsman. He said that Rahane has the ability to occupy the crease when wickets are falling around him and could also go on the attack when required.
Vengsarkar added: “Even in the IPL, he has shown a lot of consistency. So, I am surprised that he did not get a chance to play in either of the games.”
Even if one were to take a look at Rahane’s recent performances against Rayudu, the former has been miles ahead. In the IPL this year, the Rajasthan Royals batsman was on song as he hit 540 runs in 14 games. During this time, Rayudu managed 281 runs from one more game.
While Rahane averaged just under 50 at the IPL Rayudu averaged just over 30. However, Rayudu’s runs had come at a faster pace.
Former India bowler Ajit Agarkar noted that Rahane’s game is more suited to batting at the top of the order. He added that since both Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan are in good form, it is difficult for Rahane to break into the side.
