Rahane's Future in International Cricket: Is ODI Career Over?

After being released by KKR for IPL 2023, the question of whether Ajinkya Rahane's ODI career is over has become a major concern. While he is undoubtedly a skilled player and has played fearless cricket in IPL, especially during his captaincy under Rahul Dravid, recent performances have raised serious doubts about his future in the national team.

Performance Troubles and Losing Captaincy

Rahane has shown consistent skill and technique in his cricketing career. However, his form in recent IPL matches and at the international level has been subpar. With his performance not meeting the expected standards, he now faces significant challenges in securing a place in the team. His future in international cricket, particularly in the ODI format, seems very uncertain.

Impact of KL Rahul's Vice-Captaincy

KL Rahul being appointed as the vice-captain of the Indian cricket team across all formats is a significant development. This decision implies that Rahul is a secure fixture in the team, which, in turn, makes Rahane a less certain prospect. Typically, the vice-captain is a player who is a regular selection in the team, reflecting his consistent performances. Rahane, on the other hand, is no longer a guaranteed position in the team.

Competition for Positions

The appointment of KL Rahul as the new vice-captain also marks the end of Shikhar Dhawan's tenure. Shreyas Iyer is performing well in the team, especially in the number 5 slot. This leaves Rahane in a difficult position. With so much competition, it is unpleasant to see a talented player like Rahane struggle to secure regular selections. Unless Shreyas Iyer is injured or decides to step down, Rahane is likely to remain on the bench or be given only occasional guest appearances.

Hope and Uncertainty

Despite the challenges, there is hope that Rahane can turn his form around. Many fans and supporters remain confident in his abilities. However, the current scenario suggests that Rahane may need to prove himself again if he wants to regain a regular place in the team. The team's decision to appoint KL Rahul underlines the importance of form and consistency, leaving Rahane with a daunting task.

Conclusion

The future of Rahane in international cricket, especially in the ODI format, is indeed uncertain. While his skill and technique remain sound, his recent performances have cast doubts on his future. The appointment of KL Rahul as the new vice-captain and the emergence of Shreyas Iyer as a strong performer further complicate the situation. Only time will tell if Rahane can fight back and secure a place in the team.

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