Veteran Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane delivered the goods on his Leicestershire debut, scoring 71 runs off 60 balls in the England One Day Cup opener against Nottinghamshire on July 24. The 36-year-old even showcased his versatility by pulling off an uncharacteristic reverse-sweep off left-arm spinner Liam Patterson-White after attaining his half-century.
Rahane hit nine boundaries, thanks largely to his buttery smooth driving ability both off the frontfoot and backfoot. His sizeable contribution helped Leicestershire mount a total of 369/6 in 50 overs.
Leicestershire are the reigning champions of the One Day Cup, having pipped Hampshire to the post in last year’s final. After joining the Leicestershire squad on July 23, Rahane opened up on the challenges of acclimatizing to English conditions.
“It’s great playing in England. I’ve always believed it provides the best conditions for any cricketer. The constantly changing conditions require adaptability and a flexible mindset, which keeps you humble and grounded. Whenever I leave England, I feel I’ve learned something new and return as an improved cricketer,” reflected Rahane.
Ajinkya Rahane will feature in the whole One Day Cup and the last five matches of the County Championship Division Two for his county side. He was scheduled to play for Leicestershire last year but had to miss the season due to national commitments.
The moment Ajinkya Rahane reached his first Foxes fifty. 😎
🦊#LEIvNOT pic.twitter.com/bHjSpMcpvZ
— Leicestershire Foxes 🦊 (@leicsccc) July 24, 2024
