The vice-captain of the Indian National Cricket Team in the Test format of the game Ajinkya Rahane is all set to become the first Indian to join Hampshire Cricket Club in the county cricket, England. He is going to make his way into the tournament during the progress of the ICC World Cup 2019.
Ajinkya Rahane was one of the contenders for the slot in the Indian team for ICC World Cup 2019. However, he missed it in the end, as the selectors relied their trust on KL Rahul for the third opener and Vijay Shankar at the number 4 slot.
We are delighted – Giles White
Speaking of the signing, the Director of Cricket for Hampshire quoted that they are delighted to have a class of Ajinkya Rahane on their side. They added that the club feels happy to attract such a quality player on their side, who always had a good time in England for the Indian team.
Ajinkya Rahane will replace the South Africa youngster Aiden Markram, who has been selected for the ICC World Cup 2019. Alongside Markram, the franchise will also miss the services of Dimuth Karunaratne, who also got selected for the grand event.
Giles White, Director Of Cricket at Hampshire, said, “We’re delighted to attract a player of Ajinkya’s class and with both Aiden and Dimuth selected for the World Cup, we were obviously in the market for a top-order batsman. Ajinkya showed an interest early on and the way things have played out it’s a great opportunity to get him over – we’re really excited to have him with us.”
I am excited – Ajinkya Rahane
Meanwhile, the flamboyant striker of the ball Ajinkya Rahane quoted that he is delighted to become the first Indian cricketer to represent Hampshire in the county cricket. He is hopeful of scoring runs and thanked BCCI for allowing him.
“I am excited to be the first Indian to play for Hampshire. It is a county which has a glowing reputation. I hope to score runs and win as a team. And also, I would like to thank BCCI for allowing me to play,” said Rahane.
Ajinkya will represent Hampshire in eight matches during the Specsavers County Championship matches, which will take place throughout May, June and July, subject to visa clearance. Currently, he is plying his trade for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2019.