‘It’s always about giving back’: Ajinkya Rahane opens up after match-winning knock in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy semifinal

New Delhi: Ajinkya Rahane has been hitting runs like a dream in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy 2024. putting up a standout performance, he played a beautiful innings of 98 runs for Mumbai against Baroda in the semi-finals, staged at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Even though his bat didn’t quite touch the hundred mark, Rahane was crucial in helping Mumbai chase down their 159 run target successfully.

Rahane’s play was a spectacle to behold, adorning the ground with five sixes and 11 fours. The consistency in his impressive stroke play was a noteworthy highlight, and his leadership in the run-chase added a commendable note to his stunning performance; all this while skipper Shreyas Iyer also made his mark with a commendable 46 runs off mere 30 balls.

Rahane reflected on his innings, revealing that his recent form is all about change of mindset. “It’s just a mindset change. Same intent and don’t want to think far too ahead or think about my own result or outcome,” he said in the post-match press conference after his team’s win over Baroda in Bengaluru.

Rahane has demonstrated remarkable grit in this ongoing tournament. His performance was standout, notching up 84 runs in a decisive quarter-final against Vidarbha and following it up with a close-to-century score of 95 against Andhra in a league match that was make-or-break. Rahane’s focus on the ever-changing dynamics of the game serves as an emphasis.

“The way this format is going on throughout the world, we see first six overs are really important. You have to capitalize on those first six overs. If the opener or top three bats well in the first six overs and gets a big score, it becomes really easy after the first six overs,” Rahane said.

As the IPL 2025 approaches, Rahane seems to be hitting his stride while playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders. His batting has seen a remarkable surge, especially in comparison to his stint with the Chennai Super Kings during the IPL 2023. “Before making my Test debut, I played six seasons of domestic cricket, red ball cricket. And then I made my Test debut. So, it’s always about giving back.

“I still love the game. I’m still passionate about the game. And the fire inside me is still alive to represent India. So, it’s always about that. I always want to continue doing well for the team. Be it in domestic cricket or if I get a chance in future, in international cricket,” Rahane said.