Is this end of Rahane's ODI career?
Ajinkya Rahane's job, right now, might be to save the Royals campaign but the right-handed batsman should be worried after being ignored for the ODI series in England. This series is of great significance since 2019 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted by England. Ambati Rayudu and Shreyas Iyer have been named ahead of the Rajasthan Royals captain.
The crucial number 4 position
This might come as a surprise to many as India have time and again struggled with the number 4 slot in ODI cricket. Several batsmen have been tried in that position including Rahane but none have found success. Rahane has also been used as a backup opener in the last few years but his natural game is that of an accumulator.
Best time to try out the options
"We have explored many options in the last few months. We don't have too many series and too much time left before the World Cup, so we want to explore all the options before the World Cup," Kohli said.
Who can replace him?
Despite being one of India's best overseas batsmen, Rahane has failed to make the most of his opportunities. In the ODI series against South Africa, he started well but then a series of poor scores didn't help him. With several cricketers showcasing their talent in the IPL, selectors were right to drop Rahane in favour of Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul and Ambati Rayudu.
The rise and rise of KL Rahul
Rahane is used as a backup opener and slotted in at number four behind Kohli. The same role can be handled by KL Rahul. With the red-hot form that Rahul is enjoying, it was unlikely that the selectors would have opted for Rahane over him. Rahul is likely to be a part of the Indian team until the World Cup.
Can Rahane make a comeback?
Rahane certainly has the potential to make a comeback to the ODI squad. He has been named the captain for the Afghanistan Test and he should start getting runs under his belt before the tour of England. In England, if he lives up to the reputation of being India's best overseas batsman, the selectors might just have to change their minds.
