XtraTime Web Desk: Indian cricket team hasn’t found its proper No.4 batsman for the forthcoming 2019 World Cup which is set to begin just a couple of month’s time. As all the international fixtures have ended skipper Virat Kohli & coach Ravi Shastri and other selectors have to decide who they want to pick for the spot after the Indian Premier League. Indian Test team vice captain and Rajasthan Royals skipper Ajinkya Rahane has the capabilities to fill the spot.
Rahane though made it clear that he isn’t overthinking about the World Cup bus. For the Mumbaikar, the process is more important than the final result and he wants to focus on doing well in the IPL as he feels that it will automatically take him closer to the goal of representing India in the showpiece event.
“The approach won’t be any different with the World Cup spot looming because at the end you are playing cricket, be it the IPL or any other tournament. You have to score runs and do well for the team. The most important thing will be to think about the Rajasthan Royals rather than thinking too much about the road ahead. See, if I do well in the IPL, the World Cup (slot) will automatically come. I feel it is important to express yourself and not take any undue pressure thinking about things which aren’t in your control. The focus is the IPL,” he said.
Coming to the IPL, while Rahane was elevated to the captain’s role last time because regular skipper Steve Smith was banned, he will be the one leading the team this time round. After a quality show last season, does he feel the pressure of expectations?
“No, not at all. The last year was really good for us, especially as we were coming back after two years and captaining RR was a great experience. I want to thank the management for supporting me and I don’t feel any pressure this year. It is important to play as a team and look to enjoy every moment as the IPL is a long tournament. There are players from different culture and it is important to gel well and start on a positive note,” he explained.
While Rahane and the Royals missed the services of Smith the last time round, the skipper said that the team was really looking forward to welcoming the former Australia skipper this year. In fact, even the Australian team management is looking at Smith to perform well and make a swift return to the side for the World Cup.
“We are all very excited to have him back. Initially we didn’t know if he will be able to make it or not (due to the elbow injury). But when we were told he is coming, that was a boost because his experience and records are unbelievable. He has the ability to win the team matches and that is important for any team,” he smiled.
Shane Warne might be the brand ambassador this time, but his role of mentoring the side last year also came as a huge boost for Rahane the skipper as he had the former Australia spinner to back him and help him with strategising.
“The experience with Warne was brilliant. My first season was his last season as a player. Picking his mind is very important because he is a legend. He was always involved and kept strategising with us. He loves talking cricket and as a team we have learned a lot just as I have personally learned,” he said.