Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has heaped lavish praise on Ajinkya Rahane after his brilliant innings helped India to post a massive total of 557 for 5 declared in the first innings of the last Test against New Zealand.In the last couple of years, Rahane has bailed the team out of several tough situations and is fast becoming the batting mainstay of this team.

The Mumbai batsman came on the pitch when the home team was reeling at 100 for 3 but then he along with Virat Kohli steadied the ship and took India to a strong position in the match with a 365-runs partnership for the fourth wicket. Both the batsmen registered their highest individual score in Tests. Kohli scored 211 while Rahane missed his maiden double-century by only 12 runs. Rahane’s stunning innings was studded with 18 fours and 4 sixes.

Speaking to NDTV, Gavaskar called Rahane ” India’s most complete batsman”.

“Ajinkya Rahane is India’s most complete batsman at this stage. Like Virat Kohli, he is never satisfied by what he does. I am sure Virat will acknowledge how important a role Rahane has played for India. When you have the confidence of your captain, you are motivated to do even better,” Gavaskar said.

Gavaskar said that Kohli and Rahane have helped India to take the driver’s seat in the match and backed India to whitewash the Kiwis.

“Kohli and Rahane have batted New Zealand out of the park. It will be impossible for New Zealand to win this Test unless they can come up with a miracle. Of course, they can still save the game. It’s still a good wicket to bat on,” he added.

Meanwhile, replying to India’s mammoth total, the visitors ended the second day on 28 for no loss. Already 2-0 down in the series, the visitors will have to give their best if they want a positive result from this match.