(AFP Photo)
India’s batsman Ajinkya Rahane is set to join Leicestershire for the remainder of the ongoing County Championship and will also feature in the One-Day Cup along with five other County matches.
This marks Rahane’s second stint with Leicestershire, having signed with them last year but was recalled to the Indian team for the ICC World Test Championship Final 2023, thereby unable to fulfill his commitments.
Rahane’s recent outings with the bat were commendable, especially in the World Test Championship Final 2023, leading to his inclusion in the subsequent West Indies tour where he played two matches before being dropped from the national squad.
Despite not featuring for India thereafter, Rahane has remained active in domestic cricket, amassing over 13,000 runs in first-class cricket at an average of 45.76, and 6,475 runs in List A matches at 39.72, underlining his extensive experience.
Claude Henderson, Leicestershire’s director of cricket, expressed excitement over Rahane’s signing, highlighting his invaluable experience and potential mentorship for the team’s younger players.
“We are thrilled to welcome someone of Ajinkya’s quality to Leicestershire. It was unfortunate that Ajinkya’s schedule didn’t quite work with ours last year, but it’s a massive boost to have secured his services for the business end of this season.
“He holds immense experience and vital leadership qualities, which will be hugely beneficial to the team alongside his run-scoring ability. Ajinkya’s arrival also presents a fantastic opportunity for our batters to learn from one of the game’s best.”
Ajinkya Rahane – I’m hoping to enjoy my cricket and contribute to more success for the club this season
Ajinkya Rahane shared his thoughts on joining Leicestershire, expressing his rapport with the management and his eagerness to make meaningful contributions to the team’s achievements. He elaborated:
“I’m really excited to have another opportunity to come to Leicestershire. I’ve built a strong rapport with Claude and [head coach] Alfonso [Thomas], and I’m looking forward to playing for the club this summer.
“I followed the team’s results last year and was very impressed with what I saw. I’m hoping to enjoy my cricket and contribute to more success for the club this season.”
Ajinkya Rahane is set to join Leicestershire in mid-July, bringing with him the pedigree of a seasoned Indian cricketer. His addition promises to be a significant asset for the team throughout the season, filling the void expected from Wiaan Mulder’s departure due to international duties. Rahane’s presence is anticipated to provide a substantial boost to Leicestershire’s lineup.
