Chennai Super Kings’ Ajinkya Rahane has revealed he is open to whatever the team’s think tank and skipper MS Dhoni asks him to do in IPL 2023. Rahane, who lost his place in India’s Test team, was bagged by the four-time champions CSK for his base price of INR 50 lakhs.
Rahane has mostly opened the innings in the T20 format and he can make good use of the PowerPlay conditions. The right-hander from Mumbai has amassed 4074 runs in 158 IPL matches at an average of 30.86 and a strike rate of 120.68.
Thus, Rahane has all the experience under his belt and he can open the innings with either Ruturaj Gaikwad or Devon Conway.
“I have always been an opener. I have always opened the batting in the T20 format, so not much of a difference in my role. Still, whatever the management and captain asks me to do, I am always open to doing it. For me, it’s always about the team, so whenever I get an opportunity I will give my best,” Rahane told the media.
Meanwhile, CSK also roped in the services of talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes for a whopping amount of INR 16.25 crores but England’s Test skipper will play only as a specialist batter to manage his knee injury.
“You will see that tomorrow how Mahi bhai uses Stokes. It’s completely in Mahi bhai’s mind. He will use him really well,” Rahane answered.
Rahane has been in decent form as he scored 634 runs in seven Ranji Trophy matches and he would be looking to carry the same form in the IPL.
“Personally, I am batting really well, had a good domestic season. It is all about having fun but looking to learn every time and nothing changes. So, whenever I get a chance, I would like to contribute my best,” he added.
The 34-year-old is also cherishing the opportunity to once again play under the captaincy of MS Dhoni.
“Experience has been really good so far. We started our training session a long time back and very happy to be part of the CSK family. Playing under Mahi bhai again… It’s a great opportunity for me to learn, played under him in the Indian team for many years, but in CSK, this is my first opportunity to play under him. I’m really looking forward to it.”
Chennai Super Kings will kick off their Indian Premier League 2023 show against defending champions Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on 31st March.
