I still believe that I can come back for World Cup 2019 : Ajinkya Rahane

I still believe that I can come back for World Cup 2019 : Ajinkya Rahane

no photo

Despite being set out for the ODI series against England, Ajinkya Rahane has clarified that he still believes that he could make his way back into the team for the 2019 World Cup. The RR-skipper has also stated that he did well in limited overs cricket whenever he got opportunities for the country.

Ajinkya Rahane, who is overlooked for the ODI series against England believes that being overlooked for the limited over matches of the UK tour will give him more time to prepare for the five-match Test series against England, scheduled to be played from August 1.

"It is important that you get time to prepare yourself and clarity is important when you know that you are not in ODI squad and you just going to play Test matches in England. I will get a good amount of time for the Afghanistan Test and after that for the England tour," Rahane told reporters on the sidelines of the CEAT Cricket Awards, published by TOI.

Even if the decision is quite a frustration for the dependable player, Rahane in his unique calm style termed it as a motivation going forward.

"No, I am not at all frustrated; actually the thing is I can tell you this is actually motivating me because I am actually looking to make a comeback. Right now, my focus is on Test cricket. I still believe that I can come back and do well in shorter formats with World Cup (2019) coming up," said the 29 years old.

"I still believe in myself. I did well in ODI cricket whenever I got my opportunities. In West Indies, I got man-of-the-series award (with four half-centuries). Against Australia, I did really well. In South Africa, the team management asked me to bat at No 4 and I did well, so it is just a matter of time. I am still confident that I will make a comeback and do well for my country in the shorter format."

Pakistan may have outclassed England in every department inside three and half days in their first Test at Lord's but that doesn't mean India will find it easy against one of the top quality Test sides. Asked about England's comprehensive defeat at the hands of Pakistan and its implications, Rahane noted that England is a quality side and can come back anytime. 

"It is very hard to judge (England) right now. Playing in England at their own backyard is always a challenge. Yes, Pakistan played very well. They bowled and batted well but there is still some time to go for our series. We can't take England for granted as they can come back anytime."

Before the England Test series, Rahane will be leading India against Test debutants Afghanistan in the historic one-off Test in Bengaluru, starting on June 14. Giving his insights on the series, Rahane cautioned his teammates not to take them lightly.

"Right now, our focus should be on Afghanistan Test match and then think about England. We can by no means take Afghanistan lightly. The world accepts and respects Rashid Khan as a quality bowler. Whether in life or cricket, nothing can be taken for granted," the Rajasthan Royals’ skipper concluded.

Get updates! Follow us on

Open all