Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes that Ajinkya Rahane, who returned to the Test squad after 15 months, could significantly impact the World Test Championship (WTC) against Australia at The Oval, beginning on June 7. Rahane showcased excellent form in domestic cricket earlier this year and had a remarkable stint in IPL 2023, playing a crucial role in Chennai Super Kings’ title victory. Gavaskar highlights Rahane’s experience and success in England, suggesting he has a point to prove in the upcoming WTC final.
Gavaskar acknowledges Rahane’s wealth of experience, including his previous performances in England. He believes that Rahane’s presence at number 5 in the batting order will be crucial for Team India’s success in the WTC final. With his knowledge of English conditions and ability to score runs there, Rahane can significantly impact the match. Gavaskar expresses confidence in Rahane’s abilities and asserts that he still has plenty of cricket left.
“He’s got a lot of experience having played in England, having scored runs in England. So, yes, I think he will be crucial down at number 5. And yes, I believe he has a point to prove; I still feel he has plenty of cricket left in him, and this is a wonderful opportunity for him. I’m hoping he can grab this opportunity with all his experiences and make a place for him back in the Indian team,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports show Follow the Blues.
Having faced a period of exclusion from the national side, Rahane can prove his worth and regain his place in the Indian team. Gavaskar believes this opportunity at the WTC final holds immense significance for Rahane. With his experience and determination, Rahane can seize this moment and demonstrate his value as a vital member of the Indian Test squad.
Gavaskar acknowledges the potential challenge faced by Team India due to their recent involvement in the T20 format during the IPL. He highlights that adjusting to the longer format of Test cricket may pose difficulties for most players. Apart from Cheteshwar Pujara, who has been participating in English County Cricket, most players will need to adapt to the demands of Test cricket. Gavaskar emphasizes that this adjustment could be the team’s biggest test in the WTC final.
Suryakumar Yadav & Yashasvi Jaiswal Have Clarify That T20 Game Has Moved On From Rohit Sharma And Kohli, Ex-Cricketer Blunt Statement On Stars
“The biggest test will be that just about everybody will be coming out of a T20 format, and test cricket is longer. So, I think that’s going to be the big challenge. They have only Cheteshwar Pujara, who has been playing in the English County Championship, so he will be the only guy who has played the longer format in these conditions, which will be a big challenge for them,” Sunil Gavaskar added.
