Despite his strong performances, Rahane was dropped from the Indian Test team and claims selectors were unwilling to communicate about his exclusion.
February 17, 2025: Rahane Reveals Frustration Over India Snub, Says ‘No Communication’ from Agarkar
Veteran Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has opened up about his shock exclusion from the Indian Test squad despite a strong performance in the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) final. The 36-year-old batter expressed disappointment over the lack of communication from BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar and admitted he felt “odd” about the decision.
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Rahane, who top-scored for India in the WTC final against Australia, was dropped after just one series on the West Indies tour. Despite his consistent domestic and IPL performances, the selectors chose to move on from him in favor of younger players.
Rahane: ‘I Wanted to Talk, But Agarkar Wasn’t Ready’
Rahane, who has served Indian cricket for over a decade, revealed that while many advised him to reach out to the selectors, there was no willingness from their end to engage in a conversation.
“I'm not someone who goes and asks why I was dropped. But there was no communication. Many said 'go and talk,' but one can only talk when the other person is ready. If he is not ready, there is no point fighting,” Rahane told Indian Express.
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He added that he felt odd after being left out despite performing well in the WTC final and expected to be in the squad for the South Africa tour.
“Whenever an experienced player makes a comeback, he gets 2-3 series. I knew South Africa was a challenging series and expected a call. But I wasn't picked, which hurt.”
‘I Still Want to Play for India’
Despite being overlooked for selection, Rahane made it clear that his dream of playing for India is not over. Currently leading Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy semifinals, he hopes to make a strong statement with his performances.
“There is still fire and passion in me. I'm playing Ranji Trophy and trying to give my all for Mumbai. The goal is clear: to make another comeback.”
With India undergoing a transition phase in Test cricket, Rahane’s chances of a return may depend on his performance in domestic cricket and the selectors' approach to experience vs youth.
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Ajinkya Rahane, India Test Team, Ajit Agarkar, BCCI Selection Controversy, WTC Final, Ranji Trophy, Indian Cricket News, India vs South Africa, Indian Test Cricket
Last Updated on February 17, 2025 by Misha Bhatia
