Rajendra Prasad Mohapatra

Team India discard and Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) veteran batsman Ajinkya Rahane is a key member for the defending champions. He had played a massive role to help CSK emerge champions in the last edition of the Indian Premier League. With the required freedom provided by CSK captain MS Dhoni, Rahane played freely and his aggressive knock helped the team consolidate its position at the top of the order.

However, before the start of the upcoming edition of IPL, Rahane’s slump in form is a cause of concern for CSK. Though under his guidance, CSK managed to win the 42nd Ranji title, his personal loss of form is a matter of concern for CSK.

Rahane, often regarded as a stalwart of Indian cricket, found himself grappling with a lean patch in form. However, in the face of adversity, he exemplified the ethos of team-first, steering Mumbai towards glory. Though he could manage to score only 218 runs in eight matches, his innings of 73 in the final against Vidarbha showcased his tenacity.

Reflecting on his loss of form, Rahane said, “Ups and downs as a part of the game, I never think about myself, it is always team first. I am the happiest that we are champions despite me being the lowest run scorer for the team this year. This is a phase every player goes through, you need to keep working hard.”

Well, CSK will be eager that Rahane hits the form at the right time to give the team the much required stability at the top of the order.

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