New Delhi: Ajinkya Rahane went through a rare lean patch during first-class matches in the Caribbean but back-to-back half centuries in limited-overs games have restored the Mumbai youngster’s confidence as he gears up for senior team assignment in Sri Lanka.
“By nature, I am a positive person and I always like to look at the brighter side of various aspects. During the final phase of the ‘A’ tour, I scored 79 in the Twenty20 and 58 in an one-day match. Those two innings boosted my confidence and will keep me in good stead ahead of Sri Lanka series,” Rahane, who has just comeback from a month long tour of the Caribbean, told PTI today.
“Whether you are playing for India or India ‘A’, it’s the same thing. You are representing your country and there is no greater satisfaction than contributing to the team’s cause,” the 24-year-old said.
Some of the strips in the Caribbean islands are on the slower side these days and Rahane admits that it might work to his advantage on the slowish Sri Lankan tracks.
Ajinkya Rahane in this file photo. Reuters
“The key to performing well overseas is to quickly adapt and adjust to various kind of pitches. I have never played in Sri Lanka but I don’t think I will take much time to adjust to the situation out there.”
With Sachin Tendulkar deciding to opt out of the series, Rahane is likely to get another extended run either at the opening slot or at No 3.
“I am hopeful that I will get a chance to play and make full use of the opportunities. When I am given a chance, I should be able to give more than 100 percent.”
He boasts of an envious average of close to 65 (63.94 to be precise) in first-class cricket, but Rahane says there is something to be learnt everyday.
“I believe that I am a student of the game and you can learn something new in each and every practice session. The endeavour is to improve as a player,” he concluded.
PTI
