3. Ajinkya Rahane
There had been several contradictions for Ajinkya Rahane’s selection before the Tests against West Indies. Rohit Sharma was called by several to come and play instead of Rahane. Indian vice-captain for Test cricket had faced an uphill battle and didn’t manage a 3-figure score since back in August 2017.
The fact is that Rohit Sharma had also played before an unexperienced Rahane during the first Tests in South Africa. Rahane succeeded to respond with a great style. He made 271 runs in the series versus West Indies, with his tenth Test hundred in the bag. This was his first achievement in more than two years. There is no doubt about his progress; his brave performance has ensured India a timely escape from tough spots.
In addition to this, Rahane has consistently outdone himself during several of Indian team’s away Tests over the past years. Victory was a sure promise with his contribution to the game. India has barely lost any match when Rahane has played his part well. It is clear that he is a crucial component to the team’s success and to the middle-order; like the two players above, it is needless to say that Rahane also outshines Rohit Sharma by a wide margin and great sportsmanship.
