CHENNAI: Ajinkya Rahane last played a competitive match on May 14 for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL before suffering a hamstring injury. Subsequently, Rahane missed the Ranji Trophy knockouts for Mumbai who finished runners-up.
Rahane will make his return to competitive cricket when he leads West Zone in their Duleep Trophy clash against North East Zone at the MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Thursday. The other match, to be played in Pondicherry, will feature East Zone and North Zone.
The last couple of days have seen Rahane sweating it out at the nets. Despite the lack of match time, the 34-year-old — during practice — showed no sign of rustiness. Rahane looked in good touch while negotiating the bowlers.
“This was just my second session outdoors (on the eve of the tournament). I was just batting indoors in Mumbai, so I’m not thinking too far ahead about my batting,” Rahane said on Wednesday.
Rahane has spent a considerable time of his rehab period at the NCA (National Cricket Academy) in Bengaluru.
“The rehab at NCA was really good. The NCA staff and BCCI looked after me really well. It took me about two months to get fit; I had to follow a strict diet and routine for this period. I’m out of that (phase) now, just want to be fit throughout the season and keep scoring runs,” said Rahane.
A national call-up doesn’t seem to be on his mind at this point of time. “I believe in following my processes and right now my focus is on the Duleep Trophy and doing well for the West Zone. I’m looking forward to starting from zero again. For me, I don’t want to think about my past or future, it’s about being in the moment,” said Rahane, who has played 82 Tests, 90 ODIs and 20 T20s for India.
Rahane hailed the move to switch Duleep Trophy back to zonal format. In 2016-17, the tournament had turned into a three-team format, but has now reverted to its original form.
“When you play in zonal format — lots of players get opportunities. Whoever does well in Ranji Trophy, they get an opportunity in Duleep Trophy and also in Irani Trophy. I always believe you should give importance to your domestic cricket – Ranji Trophy and after that Duleep Trophy – so yes, it’s a great sign that all zones are participating,” Rahane mentioned.
