The 16th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 is well underway, and the form of veteran Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane has been one of the season’s greatest talking points. At the IPL 2023 auctions, the Chennai Super Kings acquired the 34-year-old for a base price of INR 50 lakhs.
Although Chennai’s decision to give Rahane a chance appears to have paid off, he has been in a league of his own during the current T20 tournament. With 209 runs scored in five games and a strike rate of 199.05, he has been one of Chennai’s most valuable performers in the tournament.
Recently, when the four-time champions played the Kolkata Knight Riders in the 33rd match of the tournament, Rahane made his second half-century of the season. Rahane scored 71 runs in only 29 balls. The veteran batter came forward after the game to discuss his performance in the contest.
“The only thing I will say is that I thoroughly relished my knock and am ecstatic that we won this match. When you play for Mahi Bhai (MS Dhoni), you have the opportunity to learn a great deal. As a batsman and cricketer, you are always seeking improvement. As the format evolves, I believe that as an individual, you must continue to progress and develop your skills,’ Rahane said in the post-game press conference.
Prior to two years ago, I was not afforded any playing opportunities. Ajinkya Rahane
Furthermore, Ajinkya Rahane mocked his previous franchises by stating that he did not receive as many opportunities in previous IPL seasons. During his previous season with the Kolkata Knight Riders, the 34-year-old received few opportunities for the defending champions.
“The turning point is now that I am receiving opportunities to perform. I was ecstatic when CSK selected me. They gave me the opportunity to perform and express myself, whereas a couple of years ago I had no opportunities to play. And if you don’t play contests, how would you demonstrate your arsenal of shots?,” Rahane concluded.
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