India’s Test vice-captain, Ajinkya Rahane, remains one of the most respected figures in Indian cricket. With his leadership, Rahane led the Indian team to a historic 2-1 triumph in the Border-Gavaskar series triumph. Upon his return home, however, Rahane’s decision to not cut a Kangaroo cake, earned him even more respect from his fans and peers. As Rahane returned home, a special cake was prepared for him but out of respect for the Australians, the veteran batsman refused to cut the cake.
In conversation with Harsha Bhogle, Rahane opened up on his decision to snub the cake-cutting ceremony. On being asked about his decision, Rahane said that he only had respect for the opponent team, no matter the nature of the result.
“Kangaroo is their national animal. I don’t want to do that. You give your opposition respect, you treat them well even if you win or even if you create history. You have to have respect for your opponent and other countries. That is why I took the decision against cutting the cake with a kangaroo on it,” Rahane told Bhogle.
Bhogle also asked Rahane if he is feeling tired after the Australia tour. The response of India’s Test vice-captain was: “Yes, but in a good way”.
The 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under will go in history as arguably the finest away series triumph for the Indian team. Rahane, on the other hand, is now the second Asian captain to have beaten Australia in a Test series in their own home.
