Delhi, India: Ajinkya Rahane, a newcomer to Chennai Super Kings and a veteran India batsman, stated on Thursday that he is prepared to play in any position for the four-time champions in the upcoming Indian Premier League season.
In the T20 format, Rahane has always started, but CSK have Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad as their set openers. Consequently, during a media interaction, the right-handed batter was questioned about his role in the CSK setup.
"I have always been the one to open. Since I have always opened the batting in T20 format, my role hasn't changed much. I'm still willing to do whatever the captain and management ask of me. For my purposes, it's dependably about the group, so whenever I get an open door I will do the best that I can with," Rahane said just before the IPL 2023 opener against reigning champs Gujarat Titans.
According to British media reports, when asked if Ben Stokes has any chance of bowling or will only play as a specialist batter, Rahane provided an open-ended response.
"You will find out tomorrow how Mahi bhai employs him. Mahi bhai only has it in his head. "He will use him very well," Rahane responded without providing much information.
Rahane said that he felt that he was batting in great cadence subsequent to having a nice homegrown season with 634 runs in seven Ranji games for Mumbai.
"I personally am batting extremely well and had a successful domestic season. Nothing changes—it's all about having fun while always seeking knowledge. As a result, whenever I have the opportunity, I would like to give my best," he continued.
He is looking forward to playing under Mahendra Singh Dhoni once more.
"So far, experience has been really good. We have been training for some time now, and we are thrilled to be a part of the CSK family. I have played under Mahi Bhai in the Indian team for many years, but this is my first time playing under him in CSK, so I'm really looking forward to it. Playing under him again is a great opportunity for me to learn.
When it comes to the new "Impact Player" rule, Rahane thinks that playing with 12 players effectively keeps any team in the game until the last ball is called.
"In this standard, you are rarely out of the game and whether it's a bowler, all-rounder or hitter, each group is in the game till the last ball.
"In domestic cricket, you had to choose your impact player by the 14th over; here, he can come anytime and deliver for the team; basically, you are playing with 12 players, and no team is out of the equation until the last ball," the author explains.