Ajnikya Rahane will be playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, he featured for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the last season. IPL 2023 will kick off on March 31 with the opening game between defending champions Gujarat Titans and CSK.
As the final countdown has begun before the start of the mega event–the former Indian Test skipper was asked about his role in the new franchise, Ben Stokes’ availability and MS Dhoni’s tactics.
Ajinkya Rahane is ready to play in any position for CSK-
“I have always been an opener. I have always opened the batting in the T20 format, so not much of a difference in my role,”
“Still whatever the management and captain asks me to do, I am always open to doing it. For me, it’s always about the team, so whenever I get an opportunity I will give my best,” stated the star Indian batter.
Rahane scored 634 runs in seven Ranji games for Mumbai in the 2023 season, while in seven matches last season, he scored 133 runs. He was purchased for the base price of INR 50 lakhs by the Chennai-based side in the IPL auction 2023.
After a good session at the nets! pic.twitter.com/23dFsupmdl
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) March 5, 2023
“You will see that tomorrow how Mahi bhai uses him. It’s completely in Mahi bhai’s mind. He will use him really well,” stated Ben Stokes on his availability as an all-rounder in the IPL.
The 34-year-old gave an honest reply when asked by reporters, if Ben Stokes have any chance of bowling, or if he will play only as a specialist batter in the upcoming clash, as reported by the British media.
“Personally, I am batting really well, had a good domestic season. It is all about having fun but looking to learn every time and nothing changes. So, whenever I get a chance, I would like to contribute my best,” he further added.
After the last season, it will interesting to see how CSK will overcome their shortcomings and will emerge victorious in IPL 16, whereas, MS Dhoni-led side will start their campaign in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, on the opening day (March 31) with the clash against defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) at Ahmedabad.