XtraTime Web Desk: Indian cricket team’s star batsman Ajinkya Rahane feels that playing in England is always a challenge and he is up for the challenge as he said he personally enjoy those challenges of playing abroad.
“Playing in England is always a challenge. We were here in 2014. We know what it takes to play good cricket here. For us, we want to play good cricket rather than think about the result. If you think about the result you put pressure on yourself. This time we just want to express ourselves. Guys are in good shape. Personally I enjoy those challenges, playing abroad. You know here in England the ball does a bit, in Australia there’s bounce, again in NZ the ball does a bit. My mind is in the present, one match at a time. I’m really looking forward to this series,” said Rahane while talking to the media.
As per Rahane, the pace attack of the hosts are experienced as well. Shami and Umesh have been doing well for India in the longer format for a long period of time. According to Rahane beside them, Ishant Sharma has played in county cricket as well in recent times which will help the Men in Blue aswell.
“Our pace bowlers are very experienced. Shami and Umesh were here in 2014 as well. They’ve been doing so well for us, not only in India but outside as well. In South Africa, we got 60 wickets. Our fast bowlers bowled really well. It is a challenge to bowl in England but I’m really confident about them — not only Umesh and Shami but Ishant, who came here and played some county games. We have Jasprit Bumrah as well. But yes, it will be a challenge for them to bowl patiently and bowl in the right areas for a long period of time,” added Rahane.
Shikhar Dhawan and Cheteshwar Pujara’s poor form is a cause of concern for the hosts but as per Rahane the team management aren’t worried about them as they are quality batsmen.
“We are not worried at all as both are really quality batsmen. It just takes one good innings to get into your rhythm. We all back them. Ultimately the decision will be taken by the coach and the captain. As far as I’m concerned they both are really quality batsmen and are batting really well in the nets. It just takes one innings,” told Rahane.