Rahane was magnificent: Sourav Ganguly heaps praises on Indian star’s marathon knock

Ajinkya Rahane is one of the most eminent batters of the Indian test side and he once again proved why he is valued so highly as he almost single-handedly fought off an Aussie incursion, helping India to a total that avoided a follow-on in the World Test Championship final.

As India teetered at 50/3 while trying to plug a massive deficit in the first innings, Rahane walked out to the center and was quick to get off the mark, dishing out a gilt-edged uppercut against Scott Boland to announce his arrival.

A knock helped India to push back the Australians in the face of sheer humiliation was lauded by several experts from across the globe. Former Indian captain, Sourav Ganguly was quick to embark upon the bandwagon and shower praises on Rahane’s marathon knock.

In the post-lunch show on Star Sports, Sourav Ganguly said, “How good it is, after 18 months. He (Rahane) was away for 18 months from Test cricket, Many of them had written him off and probably he himself. It is not easy in Indian cricket for a batter to come back and make a statement. I think it is tremendous. There have been many comebacks in the past but not after such a long period.”

He further added, “He was magnificent. He fought hard despite wickets falling at the other end. He will be extremely proud of what he has done till lunch.” 

Sourav also expressed his pleasure at seeing Shardul Thakur bat and that too under the pump. He said, “He showed a lot to the dressing room that if you apply and if you have a little bit of luck which India have, you will be able to bat on this pitch, a lot of credit to Rahane, he was magnificent and Shardul Thakur as well. He has batted well for India. It’s a good fight for India.”