I was playing well in ODIs before 2019 World Cup, should have been in team: India batsman Ajinkya Rahane

The vice-captain of the Indian Test cricket team, Ajinkya Rahane, has been away from white-ball cricket for over a year now, but the batsman feels that he should have been a part of India’s 2019 World Cup squad.

Ajinkya Rahane believes that he had been in good form and had been playing well in ODI cricket prior to the World Cup, and therefore should have been picked.

Speaking exclusively to Sports Tak, Ajinkya Rahane said, “It is the dream of every cricketer to play for their country in the World Cup, and that applies for me as well. Before the World Cup I was in the ODI team as well and had performed well.”

‘Was ready to open batting or play at No.4’

Rahane feels that he should have been given a chance in the 2019 World Cup that was to be played in England and said, “Prior to 2019 World Cup, I was playing well as an opener as well as at No.4. I was ready to play at any position for the team.”

But he also added that there is no point now in looking back. What the cricketer is more intent on now is to look ahead at the future.

When asked if he was still keen on playing white-ball cricket, Rahane said, “I am absolutely ready to play white-ball cricket. I don’t want to focus on whatever is not in my control [decision of selectors]. But I am very positive and hopeful that I can make a comeback to the ODI team.”

The batsman is currently getting ready for his assignment at the Indian Premier League in the UAE, where he will be playing for a new franchise this year, after a long stint with the Rajasthan Royals.

Asked how it feels to play for a new team after a long association with another team, he said, “As a professional player, you are loyal to the game. I am thankful for the role that I could play at Rajasthan Royals. But, now I have an opportunity to play at Delhi Capitals and I look forward to it. I am looking forward to playing under [Head coach of Delhi Capitals] Ricky Ponting.”

Rahane will be leaving for the UAE with the Delhi Capitals squad on Saturday. The IPL 2020 is scheduled to be played between September 19 and November 10.