'I batted well in WTC final but got dropped… Abhi bhi cricket bacha hai mera': Ajinkya Rahane eyes Test return

Ajinkya Rahane remains focused on his return to Test cricket but is currently channeling all his energy into performing for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy. With consistent scores, including three 90+ knocks and a century, Rahane's domestic form has been impressive. After his comeback to India's Test squad in 2023, Rahane believes his performance in the World Test Championship final was solid, though he was later dropped. Rahane continues to show his passion for the game, aiming for a potential Test return while leading Mumbai in their semifinal push.

2/12/20251 min read

Ajinkya Rahane remains determined to return to Test cricket but is fully focused on delivering his best performances for Mumbai in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. Rahane, who has been in remarkable form lately, has been consistently putting up big scores in domestic cricket. In his last 10 matches, he has recorded three scores over 90, one above 80, and even a century in the Ranji quarterfinal, which led Mumbai into the semifinals.

Despite his excellent domestic run, Rahane’s eyes are still set on a Test cricket comeback. Rahane, who made a return to India’s Test squad in 2023 during the World Test Championship final against Australia, was India’s top scorer in that match. However, after a series of low scores, he was dropped from the squad. Reflecting on his performance, Rahane said, "I thought I played well in that WTC final."

Even though Rahane’s selection for future tours is out of his hands, his love for cricket and domestic cricket's invaluable lessons continue to fuel his passion. He humbly added, "Domestic cricket has given me everything...I still have that love for the game. There’s still cricket left in me."

Having been a stalwart in India’s Test team for years, including leading India to a historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy win in 2020/21, Rahane’s hunger to represent his country again is palpable. However, he acknowledges the uncertain nature of selection and focuses on what he can control—his performances in domestic cricket.

For now, Rahane’s focus is clear. With Mumbai reaching the semifinals, he is intent on continuing his excellent form. “We have a Ranji Trophy semifinal to play. I’ll take a couple of days off and then focus on the next match," he said, demonstrating his commitment to Mumbai’s cause.

With over 400 runs in the current Ranji season and an exceptional performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Rahane’s domestic form is certainly catching the eye, leaving fans hopeful that his return to Test cricket may not be far away.