Hail Ajinkya Rahane, the inspirational and selfless captain who led from the front to lead India’s brilliant revival at the MCG. On Tuesday, the 32-year-old Mumbaikar plotted India’s eight-wicket win against Australia in the second Test to level the series 1-1.
After being blown away in the Adelaide Test, literally, where the Indians were shot shout for 36, cricket fans had become cynical. With Virat Kohli flying back home on paternity leave, a controversial move that when his team was in the doldrums, Rahane seized the chance. Again.
What a way the bearded man led. He scored a ton in the first innings, he scored the winnings runs on Tuesday and also ensured he lifted the morale of his own boys. He also ensured he lifted the mood of the nation bang two days before 2020 ends.
To beat the Aussies in their own den at a ground which is steeped in history was special. The record for Rahane as stand-in captain in Tests is 3/3, which should make the top honchos in the BCCI put on their thinking caps.
At a time when Virat Kohli has been leading in all the three formats, the time has come when the burden needs to be eased. Rahane can do it as he has the experience and skills to lead and ensure India can win abroad. There are many in the BCCI who may be celebrating this win but if they wish to thank Rahane, the only way to do it is make him the Test captain. He deserves much more than part-time leadership jobs.
Watching India bat, bowl and field in the second Test, what stood out was the coolness. The weather in Melbourne fluctuated but the way Rahane kept the flock together was a joy to watch. No Kohli, no Rohit Sharma, no Mohd Shami, no Ishant Sharma and no Umesh Yadav after he got injured, this win came from Team India. And, well, you have to thank Rahane and the Young Turks like Mohd Siraj the speedster and rockstar Shubhman Gill.
Social media is flooded with praise for Rahane and the boys. From the Aussie legends to English former captains, each one is congratulating India for the remarkable turnaround.
Rahane spoke in a well measured way after being adjudged man-of-the-match. It showed maturity and it also revealed he is a hardcore professional who gets the job done. To win Down Under is a big deal and he has marshalled the resources adroitly.
The third Test starts on January 7. Rahane will again lead with the same flair and will also have the services of Rohit Sharma. Injuries to the fast bowling assembly is worrying, but the skipper Rahane will work his way around that as well. One is not sure whether the third Test will be in Sydney or again in Melbourne.
It is going to be a good few days break for India as they walk into 2021 on a high. Well done Team India.
Mr. S. Kannan
Senior, Sports Journalist
