‘I have always liked him’: Former India captain backs Ajinkya Rahane to perform in the WTC Final

India has already announced the squad for the Final. The multiple injury issues in the team means BCCI selectors had to include some backup players in the team. And by that grace, Ajinkya Rahane has been recalled into the squad.

But it will be an injustice to say if we give injuries the credit for Rahane’s selection. The India batter has been in terrific form in the IPL with Chennai Super Kings this season. We have seen a different version of Ajinkya Rahane, who has looked more confident and assured of his batting, in a lethal and aggressive manner.

The 34-year-old also had a decent domestic season, but was removed from BCCI’s central contracts. But this unexpected boost to prove himself will be a huge opportunity for the veteran. And Sourav Ganguly says he believes Rahane will be able to the chance in both hands.

Former BCCI President Sourav Ganguly, who is the current Director of Cricket of Delhi Capitals, heaped praises on the CSK batter and said he always had a liking for Rahane. He also pointed out these opportunities are rare and the player must make the most out of this.

“I have always liked him. He has always been a good player for India. Opportunities don’t come every day and if he gets the chance to feature in the playing XI during the WTC final, he will make the most of it. So, I wish him all the best,” Ganguly was quoted by India Today.

Rahane so far has made an immense mark in this IPL, with 224 runs at a strike rate of 189.8, which is a bit difficult to associate with the former Kolkata Knight Riders batter.

Ganguly also wished a speedy recovery to KL Rahul. The India batter was initially in the WTC Final squad, but is ruled out with a thigh injury that he suffered in LSG’s match against RCB last Monday.

“It’s unfortunate, I have read that it’s an injury that will keep him out of the IPL as well as the WTC final. Only physios can tell the extent of the injury. Injuries are part of the sport. These boys keep playing all the years, so injuries will happen. So, I wish him a speedy recovery,” Ganguly commented.