Team India’s discarded batsman Ajinkya Rahane has made it clear that he isn’t over thinking about the World Cup bus. For the Mumbaikar, the process is more important than the final result and he wants to focus on doing well in the IPL as he feels that it will automatically take him closer to the goal of representing India in the showpiece event.
“The approach won’t be any different with the World Cup spot looming because at the end you are playing cricket, be it the IPL or any other tournament. You have to score runs and do well for the team. The most important thing will be to think about the Rajasthan Royals rather than thinking too much about the road ahead. See, if I do well in the IPL, the World Cup (slot) will automatically come,”Rahane said to IANS.
“I feel it is important to express yourself and not take any undue pressure thinking about things which aren’t in your control. The focus is the IPL.”
Coming to the IPL, while Rahane was elevated to the captain’s role last time because regular skipper Steve Smith was banned, he will be the one leading the team this time round. After a quality show last season, does the Rajasthan Royals skipper feel the pressure of expectations?
“No, not at all. The last year was really good for us, especially as we were coming back after two years and captaining RR was a great experience. I want to thank the management for supporting me and I don’t feel any pressure this year. It is important to play as a team and look to enjoy every moment as the IPL is a long tournament. There are players from different cultures and it is important to gel well and start on a positive note,” he explained.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) begins on March 23rd.
