IND v NZ: Ajinkya Rahane- Another Brick In The Wall?
- Probaho Roy
- Sep 30, 2016
- 2 min read
As India finished day 1 of of the second test against New Zealand, the tie seems to be pegged at an even draw.
But the morning hinted at a different climax when the Indian top order crumbled like a house of cards. Aided ably by the seaming wicket, Trent Boult and Matt Henry looked to sweep through the batsmen.
Ajinkya Rahane, touted as the new Mr. Dependable, came to crease at a delicate juncture. An anchoring knock was the call of the hour. Rahane responded with a fine innings to resolve the conundrum. His 77 and a formidable 87 by Cheteshwar Pujara steadied the ship and tilted the scales slightly. A late surge by the Kiwis got back the momentum towards the visitors. But Rahane's composure during the distress, validated the decision to instate him as the vice-captain.
There have been umpteen instances when the Mumbaikar donned the Noah's hat to save his side from the shallows. In fact, his debut test century came in Wellington against New Zealand when India were struggling.
He is one of those rare breed of Indian batsmen who fare better in overseas than at home. Of his 7 test centuries, 6 have been outside India. While the world swoons over the supremely talented Virat Kohli, this man has been keeping the guard akin to his erstwhile mentor Rahul Dravid.
Pujara and Rahane, earlier during the day at Eden Gardens. Image Courtesy: www.cricketcountry.com
Rahane has a knack of playing it big when the team requires him. His sound technique, calm temperament and the ability to adapt- impart an edge to his arsenal in the longer format.
In one of the interviews, Ajinkya had acknowledged the struggle that was concomitant during his earlier days. He attributed his fortitude to the days of serving as the water boy for the national team.
The signature facet of Mumbai’s khadoos cricketing environment is redolent from his playing demeanour. Rahane focuses on building the innings at the outset. Identifying the gaps and carving out the runs is his way to develop a successful total.
Rahane cuts to glory during his face saving knock against NZ. Image Courtesy: indianexpress.com
The right hander is the perfect calming foil for the aggressive Kohli. This has the potential to make them one of the greatest vice captain-captain duo. The shadows of Rahul Dravid-Sourav Ganguly pair reflect strongly in their combination.
As of now, with a not so enviable record in the limited overs, Ajinkya Rahane must improve on that. But in the longer formats, he is well on course to achieve unforeseen glory in his quest for becoming the perfect batsman.
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